Greta Thunberg’s Aid Boat to Gaza Intercepted by Israeli Forces

Famous climate activist Greta Thunberg was on board a boat trying to deliver aid to Gaza — but Israeli forces stopped it before it could reach its destination.

The boat, called the Madleen, left Sicily, Italy, on June 1 with around 12 peace and climate activists on board. The group was part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a movement trying to bring food, medicine, and baby formula to Gaza — and to protest Israel’s blockade of the region.

But late Sunday, as the boat moved through the Mediterranean Sea, Israeli forces intercepted it, stopping it from reaching the Gaza Strip.

“Greta Thunberg is safe and in good spirits,” said Israel’s Foreign Ministry. They also shared a photo of Greta in a lifejacket, being offered food by an Israeli official.

However, the activists say this was not a peaceful stop. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition accused Israel of “kidnapping” the passengers and “illegally boarding” their civilian ship. They say their aid was confiscated, and the crew was taken against their will.

Why Was the Boat Blocked?

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said they would not allow anyone to break the naval blockade on Gaza. He accused the group — including Greta — of being Hamas supporters and warned:

“You will not reach Gaza.”

The boat was reportedly around 160 nautical miles from Gaza when Israel jammed its communication signals, making it difficult for the group to stay in contact with the outside world.

Who Else Was Onboard?

Alongside Greta was Rima Hassan, a French politician of Palestinian background, who has been openly critical of Israel’s policies. The boat also carried other human rights and climate activists. Actor Liam Cunningham (from Game of Thrones) helped prepare the boat but didn’t sail with it.

Why It Matters

Gaza has been under a strict blockade for months, with very limited aid allowed in. Activists say people in Gaza are starving and desperate, and humanitarian groups like Save the Children say they haven’t been able to deliver any aid since March 2.

While Israel claims it’s letting in aid through controlled routes, reports say people have died while trying to reach those distribution sites.

Greta Thunberg has not yet made a public statement, but her supporters say she joined the voyage to stand against injustice — not for politics, but for peace.