Greta Thunberg, the Swedish climate activist, was deported from Israel following the country’s naval interception of a Gaza-bound flotilla carrying aid. The vessel, named the Madleen, was described as a ‘selfie yacht’ by Israeli authorities, suggesting it was a publicity stunt rather than a genuine humanitarian effort. Thunberg and three other activists were deported, while eight passengers refused to sign deportation paperwork, according to the Times of Israel.
Thunberg reportedly told her attorneys that she could do ‘more good outside of Israel’ and that refusing to leave would ‘harm’ her cause. Israel claimed the flotilla, which carried less than a single truckload of aid, was intended to draw attention rather than deliver critical supplies to Gaza. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the organization of the Madleen’s voyage, which included celebrities and activists, was inappropriate for delivering aid and that the cargo would be transferred through official humanitarian channels.
The Israeli navy intercepted the flotilla early on Monday, prompting Thunberg to post a video claiming she had been ‘kidnapped’ by Israel. This statement drew criticism, as some pointed out the plight of hostages held in Gaza since the start of the conflict in October 2023. The Israeli military emphasized that its actions were in line with its policies, which prioritize security and the protection of Israeli citizens. In contrast, the U.S. and other Western countries have criticized the blockade of Gaza, calling it an obstacle to humanitarian aid.
President Donald Trump, in response to Thunberg’s claim of being kidnapped, stated, ‘I think Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg.’ He called the climate activist a ‘strange person’ and suggested she needed ‘anger management’ courses. The incident highlights the complex political tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of international activists in advocating for humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Israel has stated that over 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza in the past two weeks, with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an organization backed by Israel and the U.S., delivering almost 11 million meals to civilians. The interception of the Madleen has sparked international debate over the methods of aid delivery and the role of activists in shaping the narrative of the humanitarian crisis.