Israel Vows to Respond as Greta Thunberg Approaches Gaza on Palestinian-Flagged Vessel

Israel has issued a stark warning, vowing it will "act accordingly" to prevent the Freedom Flotilla Coalition from reaching Gaza, as the group—carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg—continues its high-profile journey across the Mediterranean. The 22-year-old Swedish activist set sail this week aboard the Madleen, joined by 11 other advocates and flying a Palestinian flag, in an effort to highlight the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and deliver aid.

Thunberg, who has become an internationally recognized figure for her environmental campaigns, announced her resolve, stating, "We are doing this because, no matter what odds we are against, we have to keep trying." Her remarks underscore the determination among the flotilla’s crew, which includes notable figures such as "Game of Thrones" actor Liam Cunningham and Rima Hassan, a French Member of the European Parliament of Palestinian heritage. Hassan, known for her outspoken criticism of Israeli actions in Gaza, has reportedly been barred from entering Israel.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Wednesday that it is closely monitoring the progress of the flotilla. IDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin stated, "For this case as well, we are prepared. We have gained experience in recent years, and we will act accordingly." The military has not revealed specific details about its potential response if or when the vessel approaches the blockaded Gazan coastline, but the message appears clear: Israel views the attempted breach as a matter of national security.

This attempt follows recent setbacks for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. Just last month, another vessel in the group’s efforts was reportedly damaged before reaching Malta, where it had been scheduled to pick up Thunberg for an earlier mission. The coalition has accused Israel of orchestrating the attack using drones, although these claims have not been independently verified.

During her voyage, which began at the Sicilian port city of Catania, Thunberg has been active on social media, sharing her journey—including moments swimming in the Mediterranean waters—to draw global attention. In a pointed statement ahead of departure, she said, "Because the moment we stop trying is when we lose our humanity. And no matter how dangerous this mission is, it’s not even near as dangerous as the silence of the entire world in the face of the livestreamed genocide."

With the situation in Gaza growing increasingly dire, international scrutiny has intensified both over Israel's military strategy and the efforts of activists attempting to break the maritime blockade. As the Madleen continues her course toward Gaza, all eyes remain fixed on the next chapter of this unfolding confrontation at sea.