Israel Intercepts Vessel Carrying Thunberg and Activists Bound for Gaza

On Monday, Israel intercepted a vessel carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists. The ship was attempting to breach the naval blockade and deliver aid to the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry reported that the British-flagged yacht, Madleen, was being escorted to Israeli shores after being boarded by Israeli forces. The ministry indicated that the passengers were expected to return to their home countries.

The vessel had departed Sicily earlier in the month, carrying a symbolic shipment of humanitarian aid. The mission aimed to reach Gaza, where the ongoing Israeli aid blockade has raised concerns about starvation.

Greta Thunberg, a prominent climate activist, emphasized the importance of the mission, highlighting what she described as a global silence on a "live-streamed genocide."

The vessel also carried other activists, including Thiago Ávila, a Brazilian activist and politician; Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament; and Baptiste André, a French doctor. The doctor was traveling with the group to provide medical assistance in case of confrontations with Israeli forces.

Hamas issued a statement condemning the interception, expressing solidarity with Gaza and acknowledging the support from people worldwide.

The Madleen's attempt to deliver aid via the sea route coincided with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's announcement of opening three distribution centers in Gaza. The foundation had previously closed its centers due to violence.

The crew of the Madleen had reported signal jamming and warned of a possible interception. The Israeli navy approached the boat and instructed it to alter its course.