Israeli Forces Board Gaza Aid Ship in International Waters

Israeli forces intercepted the Gaza-bound aid ship 'Madleen' in international waters, detaining 12 activists including Greta Thunberg, in an operation that activists and their legal team called a violation of international law. The activists were seeking to protest Israel's military campaign in Gaza and highlight severe humanitarian restrictions. Israeli authorities said they would deport the activists and transfer the aid cargo, which included baby formula and medical supplies, through official channels, while justifying the interception as a legal measure to prevent weapons smuggling to Hamas. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition condemned the boarding as 'kidnapping' and claimed the humanitarian cargo was confiscated. The interception comes as Gaza faces famine risks and ongoing deadly attacks, with at least 44 people killed in recent Israeli strikes. The operation drew condemnation from international rights groups and Hamas, which called the seizure 'state terrorism' and praised the activists' efforts.