Israel intercepted a Gaza-bound aid boat, detaining passengers including activist Greta Thunberg, and is set for their deportation following the incident.
Israel Detains Gaza-Bound Aid Boat Passengers, Including Greta Thunberg

Israel Detains Gaza-Bound Aid Boat Passengers, Including Greta Thunberg
Israel's Foreign Ministry announces imminent deportation of detained aid ship passengers as tensions escalate over Gaza.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed on Tuesday that it has deported passengers from a Gaza-bound aid ship, including environmental activist Greta Thunberg. The vessel, operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was intercepted by Israeli forces on Monday, sparking outrage and debates over humanitarian access to Gaza. The passengers were taken to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, where they were prepared for deportation to their home countries.
Thunberg and the crew of the ship, named Madleen, aimed to bring humanitarian aid to the Gaza enclave, which has been heavily affected by Israel's naval blockade. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, known for its activism against the blockade, has staged numerous such initiatives over the years. However, Israel has maintained a firm stance against any attempts to breach the blockade, asserting that its military would take necessary measures to prevent such breaches.
Despite the interception, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition accused Israeli forces of "kidnapping" their activists. This incident comes at a particularly sensitive time, as ongoing tensions in the region continue to fuel controversy over humanitarian access and military engagement. The Israeli Foreign Ministry indicated that any detainees refusing to comply with deportation orders could face legal consequences, further escalating the situation.
Responses from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition regarding the incident have not yet been reported, leaving the international community awaiting further developments. The situation highlights the complex interplay between humanitarian efforts and geopolitical tensions in the region.
Thunberg and the crew of the ship, named Madleen, aimed to bring humanitarian aid to the Gaza enclave, which has been heavily affected by Israel's naval blockade. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, known for its activism against the blockade, has staged numerous such initiatives over the years. However, Israel has maintained a firm stance against any attempts to breach the blockade, asserting that its military would take necessary measures to prevent such breaches.
Despite the interception, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition accused Israeli forces of "kidnapping" their activists. This incident comes at a particularly sensitive time, as ongoing tensions in the region continue to fuel controversy over humanitarian access and military engagement. The Israeli Foreign Ministry indicated that any detainees refusing to comply with deportation orders could face legal consequences, further escalating the situation.
Responses from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition regarding the incident have not yet been reported, leaving the international community awaiting further developments. The situation highlights the complex interplay between humanitarian efforts and geopolitical tensions in the region.