Israeli forces intercepted the sailboat ‘Madleen,’ carrying Greta Thunberg and other activists attempting to deliver aid to Gaza, and diverted it to Israel. The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the interception and the safety of those on board, noting they were provided with food and water.
The ‘Madleen’ was part of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla, departing from Sicily with supplies for Gaza. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said the passengers were expected to return home. The ministry also stated that the activists’ actions aimed to gain publicity, adding that the aid on the yacht was insignificant compared to the aid already entering Gaza through existing humanitarian channels. The aid on the yacht was intended for transfer to Gaza through established channels.
Israeli Navy officials communicated with the vessel through international civilian channels. The Gaza Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported the interception of the flotilla by the IDF. Contact with the ‘Madleen’ was lost, and activists reported being targeted by drones and subjected to an irritant. The group also reported jammed communications. Activists also shared pre-recorded videos in case of detention.
The Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the military had been ordered to halt the boat from reaching Gaza, citing the ongoing blockade. Earlier, the activists described being approached by speedboats, which they believed belonged to the IDF.