By Emeka Blast 
Greta Thunberg’s Gaza-Bound Aid Ship Diverted by Israeli Forces
On June 9, 2025, Israeli forces intercepted the British-flagged aid ship Madleen, which was en route to Gaza carrying 12 activists, including climate campaigner Greta Thunberg and French MEP Rima Hassan. The vessel, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was transporting symbolic humanitarian aid such as baby formula, medical supplies, and food. Israeli authorities redirected the ship to the port of Ashdod, asserting that the crew would be repatriated to their home countries. The Foreign Ministry referred to the mission as a “selfie yacht” operation, while Defense Minister Israel Katz labeled it a “Hamas propaganda” effort and emphasized the necessity of the blockade for national security.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition condemned the interception, describing it as a “kidnapping” of unarmed civilians in international waters. Activists aboard the ship reported that Israeli drones sprayed an irritant on the vessel before communication was lost and the ship was boarded. The incident has drawn international criticism, with human rights groups and UN officials calling for the release of the detainees and the opening of humanitarian corridors to Gaza.
This event follows a previous attempt by the flotilla in May 2025, when their vessel Conscience was attacked by drones in international waters off Malta. Despite these challenges, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition remains committed to raising awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and challenging the Israeli blockade.
