Israeli Forces Seize Greta Thunberg Gaza-Bound Aid Ship

Israeli forces intercepted the British-flagged charity vessel Madleen, carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and other activists, as it attempted to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) surrounded the yacht, operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, and escorted it to an Israeli port, preventing it from reaching Gaza due to the ongoing naval blockade that has been in place since 2007. Israeli officials described the mission as a media stunt aimed at garnering publicity rather than a genuine humanitarian effort, noting that the vessel carried less than a single truckload of aid and emphasizing that over 1,200 aid trucks had entered Gaza recently through official channels. Passengers, including left-wing activists and European Parliament member Rima Hassan, were detained but unharmed and are expected to be returned to their home countries. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz labeled Thunberg 'antisemitic Greta' and warned the flotilla would not reach Gaza, stating Israel would act against any attempts to break the blockade or support terrorist organizations. The incident highlights the contentious nature of delivering aid to Gaza under the blockade and the political tensions surrounding such efforts.