Israeli forces boarded the British-flagged yacht Madleen, operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, as it attempted to breach Israel’s naval blockade and deliver symbolic aid to Gaza.
The vessel, which departed Sicily on June 6, was intercepted in international waters, with Israel redirecting it to Ashdod.
On board were 12 people, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and French MEP Rima Hassan.
Israeli authorities called the mission a propaganda stunt in support of Hamas, while activists accused Israel of suppressing humanitarian efforts.
Israel has faced increasing scrutiny over its blockade and alleged shootings at aid distribution sites, though it maintains the blockade is legal and aid is allowed through official crossings.
SOS! the volunteers on ‘Madleen’ have been kidnapped by Israeli forces.
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish citizen.
Pressure their foreign ministries and help us keep them safe!Web: https://t.co/uCGmx8sn8j
X : @SweMFA
FB : @SweMFA
IG : swedishmfa#AllEyesOnMadeleen pic.twitter.com/76Myrg2Bnz— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) June 9, 2025
All the passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over. pic.twitter.com/tLZZYcspJO
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025
Filthy repulsive genocidal Israel, backed by the worthless trash in the UK, US and Germany……
Good, so glad the Instagram ambulance chasers were moved on.
Putting their lives at risk. That is what some countries navy should be doing!
Useless politicians with no spines
https://thegrayzone.com/2025/06/05/israel-arming-isis-gang-gaza/
From bad to worst
Please sink it 🙏
that’s unkind !