In the early hours of Monday, Israeli authorities intercepted a vessel headed for Gaza, detaining climate activist Greta Thunberg among others aboard. This action was part of the ongoing enforcement of a blockade on the Palestinian region, which has been intensified amid the current conflict with Hamas.
Seizure at Sea
The activists embarked on their journey to protest against Israel’s military actions in Gaza, a campaign considered one of the most lethal and destructive since the Second World War, including its restrictions on humanitarian aid. The blockade has put the territory’s population of approximately 2 million people at a heightened risk of famine.
The voyage was organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which claimed that the activists were “kidnapped by Israeli forces” during their humanitarian mission. “The ship was unlawfully boarded, its unarmed civilian crew abducted, and its life-saving cargo — including baby formula, food, and medical supplies — confiscated,” the group stated.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the operation as a publicity maneuver, describing the vessel as a “’selfie yacht’ of the ‘celebrities.’” They assured that the activists would be sent home and the aid materials would reach Gaza through official channels, sharing footage of Israeli personnel providing food and water to the detained activists.
Thunberg Among the Detained
The ship, named Madleen, departed from Sicily a week before the interception, carrying 12 activists, including Thunberg. During their journey, they paused to rescue four migrants who had fled from the Libyan coast guard.
In a pre-recorded message, Thunberg urged her supporters to lobby the Swedish government for her release. “I urge all my friends, family and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible,” she stated.
Among the activists was Rima Hassan, a member of the European Parliament of Palestinian descent, who has been barred from entering Israel due to her stance against Israeli policies. French President Emmanuel Macron has requested their swift return to France.
Legal and Humanitarian Concerns
Adalah, an Israeli rights group, claimed Israel had no legal right to intercept the ship in international waters, stating, “The arrest of the unarmed activists, who operated in a civilian manner to provide humanitarian aid, amounts to a serious breach of international law.”
Following a complete blockade aimed at pressuring Hamas, Israel began allowing limited aid into Gaza. However, experts warn of dire consequences without the full lifting of restrictions and cessation of military actions.
A previous attempt by the Freedom Flotilla to deliver aid was thwarted when another vessel was attacked by drones near Malta, an incident for which they have blamed Israel.
Prolonged Blockade
Since Hamas took control in 2007, Israel and Egypt have imposed a blockade on Gaza, justified by Israel as a measure to prevent arms smuggling to Hamas. Critics argue it collectively punishes the Palestinian population.
Following an attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, Israel enforced a total blockade, later easing under international pressure. However, the ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties and destruction in Gaza, with over 54,000 Palestinians reported dead.
The war has left Gaza heavily dependent on international aid, with negotiations for a truce stalled. Hamas demands a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces for the release of the remaining hostages.
For continued updates, visit AP’s war coverage.
