Israel Warns of Action as Greta Thunberg Approaches Gaza on Palestinian-Flagged Vessel
Swedish activist Greta Thunberg joins Gaza-bound flotilla, prompting Israeli military to monitor the vessel's approach.
The Israeli government has issued a warning that it will “act accordingly” to prevent the Freedom Flotilla Coalition from reaching the Gaza Strip, as the vessel carries prominent climate activist Greta Thunberg on a high-profile mission. The 22-year-old Swedish activist set sail earlier this week aboard the Madleen, accompanied by 11 other activists and flying the Palestinian flag, in an effort to deliver humanitarian aid and draw attention to the ongoing crisis facing civilians in Gaza.
Thunberg, speaking before the voyage, emphasized the necessity of their mission despite significant obstacles ahead. “We are doing this because, no matter what odds we are against, we have to keep trying,” Thunberg stated, underscoring the activists’ determination to seek action where they feel the international community has fallen silent.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Wednesday that they were closely monitoring the flotilla's movement across the Mediterranean. IDF spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin remarked, “For this case as well, we are prepared. We have gained experience in recent years, and we will act accordingly.” However, Defrin did not elaborate on what specific actions the military might take if the Madleen approaches or attempts to enter Gazan waters.
The crew of the Madleen also includes high-profile figures such as actor Liam Cunningham, best known for his role in “Game of Thrones,” and Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament of Palestinian descent. Hassan has previously been denied entry to Israel due to her outspoken criticism of the Israeli military campaign in Gaza, highlighting the contentious atmosphere surrounding the activists’ mission.
The renewed flotilla comes amid heightened tensions in the region, as Israel recently approved plans to expand its military operations in Gaza and called up tens of thousands of reserve soldiers. The developments have amplified international scrutiny over the humanitarian situation within the enclave and the restrictions on aid delivery.
This is not the first attempt by the coalition to breach the blockade and deliver supplies to Gaza. Last month, a previous flotilla ship was damaged in the Mediterranean near Malta just before it was supposed to pick up Thunberg. The activists accused Israel of sabotaging the vessel with drones, though officials have not publicly addressed the allegation.
Throughout her journey, which began from the Sicilian port of Catania in Italy, Thunberg has actively documented the trip on social media, sharing footage of life at sea as well as messages urging global leaders to address the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian fallout. “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,” Thunberg declared, reinforcing her call to action as the flotilla presses onward toward Gaza amidst mounting international tension.
