The Israeli military intercepted the sailboat ‘Madleen,’ carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and other activists, and redirected it towards Israeli shores. The Israel Foreign Ministry confirmed the interception, stating that all onboard were safe and unharmed. The ministry noted that the passengers were provided with food and water. Thunberg and the other activists were attempting to deliver aid to Gaza as part of the Freedom Flotilla coalition.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that the yacht’s passengers were expected to return to their home countries. The ministry further emphasized that while the activists aimed for publicity, the amount of aid on board was minimal compared to the aid entering Gaza through established channels. The ministry also indicated that the small amount of aid on the yacht would be transferred to Gaza through appropriate humanitarian channels.
The Israeli Navy communicated with the vessel through an international civilian communication system and instructed the yacht to alter its course. The Gaza Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that the IDF intercepted the flotilla, and contact with the ‘Madleen’ was lost. The activists reported being targeted by drones that sprayed an irritant substance. The coalition also noted that the boats’ communication signals were jammed, and disturbing sounds were played on their radios. Prior to the interception, the ship sounded an alarm, instructing the activists to wear life jackets.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that he had ordered the military to halt the boat from reaching Gaza due to the ongoing blockade. Videos recorded by activists were shared in case of potential detention by the IDF, but no detentions have been reported. Prior to the interception, the activists reported being approached by speedboats which they believed belonged to the IDF.