Israel Detains Greta Thunberg, Intercepts Gaza Aid Flotilla Sparking Global Protests

Israeli naval forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy of over 40 civilian ships carrying around 500 activists, parliamentarians, and lawyers, including Greta Thunberg, attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza amid Israel's longstanding blockade. Israel justified the interception as necessary to prevent weapons smuggling to Hamas and described the flotilla as a provocation, offering to deliver aid via alternative safe channels. Flotilla organizers and participating activists condemned the interception as illegal and a violation of international law, accusing Israeli forces of aggressive actions such as ramming vessels and using water cannons. The detention of Thunberg and other passengers sparked widespread international outrage and protests, with foreign governments from Turkey, Colombia, Malaysia, Italy, and Spain raising concerns over their nationals involved. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, including Israel's intensified military campaign around Gaza City, exacerbates the humanitarian crisis, with reports of famine-related deaths and calls for Palestinians to evacuate the city under threat of force. The incident highlights the tense intersection of humanitarian aid, international activism, and Israeli security policy, intensifying global debates over the blockade's legality and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.