Israel Set To Block Gaza-Bound Flotilla Led by Greta Thunberg and European Activists
The Israeli military is preparing to intercept a Gaza-bound ship carrying pro-Palestinian activists, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, before it can reach Israeli territorial waters. The vessel, named Madleen, is part of a mission organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and is currently sailing under a UK flag. The group departed from Sicily with humanitarian supplies and a stated goal of challenging Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
The flotilla includes 12 activists from several countries, including members with French, Swedish, German, and Brazilian citizenship, as well as European Parliament member Rima Hassan, who previously attempted to enter Israel but was deported. The participants claim their voyage aims to deliver humanitarian aid and protest what they describe as Israel’s “illegal, decades-long blockade” and “ongoing genocide” in Gaza. Onboard are baby formula, medical equipment, water filtration devices, and children’s prosthetics.
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Israeli authorities have made clear the flotilla will not be allowed to reach Gaza. “The IDF is prepared to stop the vessel before it enters Israeli waters,” a government source said. Officials say Hassan’s diplomatic status delayed enforcement actions, but they are now prepared to act.
Some members of the delegation have previously made controversial statements. Hassan called Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel “legitimate,” while other participants praised Iran’s missile strike on Israel and expressed support for Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The mission is the latest in a series of similar flotillas staged over the past 15 years to challenge Israel’s control over Gaza’s coastal access. Organizers say this voyage also diverted to rescue dozens of migrants in distress in the Eastern Mediterranean. Activists accused Greece of aiding Israeli surveillance through drone use and encouraged supporters to track their progress live online.
The effort comes as Israel faces growing criticism over aid restrictions in Gaza, now 20 months into its war with Hamas. Both France and the UK have condemned the ongoing blockade, calling for urgent humanitarian access.
