An aid ship attempting to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza faces orders to be stopped by the Israeli military. Defense Minister Israel Katz announced he has directed the army to prevent the vessel, named ‘Madeleine’, from reaching the Palestinian territory.
The ‘Madeleine’, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, departed Sicily on June 6th. It is currently near the Egyptian coast, approximately 160 nautical miles (296 km) from Gaza, and heading towards its destination. On board are 12 people, including prominent Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and French-Palestinian European Parliament member Rima Hassan.
Minister Katz issued a strong warning specifically naming Thunberg and her colleagues: “I send a clear message to the anti-Semite Greta and her pro-Hamas colleagues: go back, you will not be allowed to reach Gaza.” He accused them of supporting Hamas.
Thunberg stated her participation aims to protest Israel’s “illegal blockade” and “ongoing war crimes” in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition confirmed the ship carries symbolic aid supplies like rice and baby milk. A spokesperson said the crew is prepared for the possibility of an Israeli interception.
Israeli media reports indicate the military plans to stop the boat before it reaches Gaza, divert it to the port of Ashdod, and deport the crew members. This action echoes a deadly 2010 incident when Israeli commandos raided the Turkish aid ship ‘Mavi Marmara’, part of a previous flotilla, resulting in the deaths of 10 activists.
Also read:UN warns Gaza hunger crisis deepening due to Israeli blockade
