Islamabad, June 9, 2025: In a high-profile naval intervention, Israeli forces have intercepted and taken control of the Madleen, a British-flagged humanitarian yacht attempting to breach the long-standing Gaza blockade.
The vessel, backed by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) and carrying a dozen international activists—including Swedish climate icon Greta Thunberg—was aiming to deliver symbolic humanitarian aid to Gaza Strip residents.
According to officials, the yacht was rerouted to an Israeli port after being intercepted overnight in international waters. The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the operation, saying, “The vessel and its passengers are en route to Israeli shores. Everyone is safe.” They added that the crew had been treated humanely, given food and water, and would be repatriated.
The activists, including Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament, were reportedly detained without incident. A photo circulating online shows the group seated with life vests, raising their hands as a sign of peaceful compliance.
The Madleen was carrying a small cargo of aid supplies, such as rice and baby formula, intended for Gaza’s besieged population. Israeli officials emphasized that the aid—what remained after onboard consumption—would be transferred to Gaza through “legitimate humanitarian channels.”
Defense Minister Israel Katz labeled the mission a “media stunt to support Hamas” and reinforced that the naval blockade, in place since 2007 following Hamas’ takeover of Gaza, remains vital to prevent weapons smuggling.
The interception comes amid escalating criticism of the humanitarian situation in Gaza. According to Gaza’s health ministry, over 54,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli operations since October 2023. The UN has issued multiple famine warnings, citing critical shortages of food and medicine for Gaza’s 2 million residents.
Read More: Geostrategic Importance of Pakistan: A Key Player in South Asia
UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese backed the Freedom Flotilla’s intent and urged continued global action. “Though Madleen was stopped, the cause continues. Every port across the Mediterranean must now send vessels with aid and solidarity,” she posted on X.
This development intensifies the spotlight on Israel’s Gaza naval blockade, international activism, and the growing urgency of humanitarian access in the conflict-torn region.
Read More: Iran to Reveal Israeli Secret Documents Soon
