Climate activist Greta Thunberg and crew of the Madleen face detention after Israeli forces seize their humanitarian vessel in international waters, sparking global outcry.
Catania, Italy – On June 9, 2025, Israeli naval forces intercepted the British-flagged yacht Madleen, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), approximately 160km from Gaza in international waters. The vessel, carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and 11 other activists, was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge Israel’s naval blockade. Thunberg, in a pre-recorded video, claimed the crew was “kidnapped” by Israeli forces, urging supporters to pressure the Swedish government for their release.
Interception and Detention
The Israeli Navy’s Shayetet 13 commando unit boarded the Madleen around 2 a.m. local time, redirecting it to Ashdod port in Israel. The FFC reported that quadcopters sprayed the ship with an unknown white substance, and communications were jammed during the operation. A photo shared by the FFC showed crew members in life jackets with hands raised, though no Israeli soldiers were visible. Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the interception, stating the activists would be deported, and the aid—baby formula, rice, and medical supplies—would be rerouted through “official humanitarian channels.”
Thunberg’s Call for Action
In her video, Thunberg stated, “If you see this video, we are being intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces.” She called the mission a stand against the “live-streamed genocide” in Gaza, referencing Israel’s blockade, which has restricted aid amid a humanitarian crisis. The FFC condemned the interception as “unlawful,” with representative Huwaida Arraf asserting, “Israel has no legal authority to detain international volunteers delivering aid.” United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, who was in contact with the ship’s captain during the approach, demanded the crew’s immediate release.
Israel’s Stance and Global Reaction
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz labeled the flotilla a “propaganda effort” supporting Hamas, ordering the military to block the vessel. The Foreign Ministry mocked the mission as a “selfie yacht” stunt, claiming over 1,200 aid trucks entered Gaza in the past two weeks. However, a 2024 UN report highlights that Gaza’s humanitarian needs remain dire, with 80% of aid deliveries blocked since October 2023, exacerbating famine risks. The interception drew condemnation from rights groups, with Al-Haq calling for global action to challenge the blockade. Social media erupted with #FreeMadleen trending, amplifying demands for the activists’ release.
Background of the Freedom Flotilla
The Madleen, named after a Palestinian fisher, is part of the FFC’s decade-long effort to break Israel’s blockade, in place since 2007. The coalition’s 2010 Mavi Marmara mission ended tragically when Israeli forces killed 10 activists, drawing international outrage. The Madleen carried notable figures like French MEP Rima Hassan and actor Liam Cunningham, alongside aid meant to symbolize resistance to Gaza’s siege. On June 5, the ship rescued four Sudanese refugees during a detour near Libya, showcasing its humanitarian intent.
What Happens Next?
The detained activists, including Thunberg, are expected to be processed and deported, though timelines remain unclear. Israel plans to show the crew footage of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, a move Katz described as a response to their “provocation.” Legal experts argue the interception in international waters violates maritime law, potentially escalating diplomatic tensions. The FFC vowed to continue its mission, with Albanese urging other vessels to challenge the blockade. The incident has reignited debates over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and Israel’s blockade policies.