Israel Detains Greta Thunberg and Humanitarian Activists Amid Gaza Aid Mission
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid vessel on Monday, detaining climate activist Greta Thunberg and several other volunteers aboard the ship. The activists, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aimed to protest Israel’s military actions in Gaza and deliver essential supplies to the besieged region, where famine looms.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry dismissed the mission as a “public relations stunt,” claiming the vessel’s passengers, described as “celebrities,” would soon return home. Israel shared videos of military personnel providing sandwiches and water to the detained activists.
Thunberg, along with 11 others on the Madleen, had departed from Sicily, previously rescuing four migrants in distress. In a recorded message, she urged supporters to pressure the Swedish government for their release. Rima Hassan, a European Parliament member, was also onboard but has been barred from entering Israel due to her opposition to its policies.
The blockade, imposed since 2007, has escalated during the recent conflict, which has resulted in over 54,000 Palestinian fatalities. Humanitarian advocates warn that the blockade continues to endanger millions in Gaza, with substantial pressure mounting for ceasefire negotiations as hostilities persist.
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