Focus on the BIG picture.
Thursday, Jun 12, 2025
Outside the box.
Greta Thunberg Detained and Deported by Israeli Authorities After Aid Mission to Gaza
The Swedish activist describes her experience following the interception of a boat delivering aid in the Mediterranean.
Greta Thunberg has publicly addressed her detention and subsequent deportation by Israeli authorities after the British-flagged vessel Madleen, part of the ‘Freedom Flotilla Coalition’, was intercepted while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza.
Speaking from Paris on June 10, 2025, Thunberg described the situation as equivalent to being 'kidnapped' on international waters.
Thunberg, who is 22 years old, was among a group of 12 individuals aboard the vessel.
Their mission aimed to break the naval blockade imposed by Israel on Gaza since 2007, following Hamas’ rise to power.
Upon the ship's capture, Thunberg and other activists were detained, with reports indicating that they faced significant obstacles in accessing legal representation.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed Thunberg’s deportation, which was executed after the activists voluntarily agreed to leave Israel.
Following her removal from the vessel, Thunberg raised concerns about her fellow passengers, emphasizing her worry regarding the treatment and ongoing detention of the remaining activists.
She stated that at least four individuals from the group had already been deported, while eight others were still being held at Givon prison in Ramla.
Reports have surfaced that the detained crew members were made to view footage related to Hamas’ attacks on October 7, despite their humanitarian intentions.
During a press conference at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, Thunberg called for the immediate release of those still incarcerated, underscoring what she described as a 'betrayal' by governments towards civilians in Gaza.
Adalah, a legal rights group advocating on behalf of Thunberg and other activists, confirmed the deportation status and the ongoing legal struggles faced by those contesting their deportation.
Thunberg articulated her determination to raise awareness for the plight of Gazans, stating, 'we see you', and acknowledging the risks involved in their mission.
The situation has drawn significant attention, reflecting ongoing tensions in the region and the intersection of humanitarian efforts and geopolitical conflict.
As of the latest updates, the Israeli authorities indicated that those who refuse to sign deportation documents would face judicial review, as outlined by Israeli law.
Speaking from Paris on June 10, 2025, Thunberg described the situation as equivalent to being 'kidnapped' on international waters.
Thunberg, who is 22 years old, was among a group of 12 individuals aboard the vessel.
Their mission aimed to break the naval blockade imposed by Israel on Gaza since 2007, following Hamas’ rise to power.
Upon the ship's capture, Thunberg and other activists were detained, with reports indicating that they faced significant obstacles in accessing legal representation.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed Thunberg’s deportation, which was executed after the activists voluntarily agreed to leave Israel.
Following her removal from the vessel, Thunberg raised concerns about her fellow passengers, emphasizing her worry regarding the treatment and ongoing detention of the remaining activists.
She stated that at least four individuals from the group had already been deported, while eight others were still being held at Givon prison in Ramla.
Reports have surfaced that the detained crew members were made to view footage related to Hamas’ attacks on October 7, despite their humanitarian intentions.
During a press conference at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, Thunberg called for the immediate release of those still incarcerated, underscoring what she described as a 'betrayal' by governments towards civilians in Gaza.
Adalah, a legal rights group advocating on behalf of Thunberg and other activists, confirmed the deportation status and the ongoing legal struggles faced by those contesting their deportation.
Thunberg articulated her determination to raise awareness for the plight of Gazans, stating, 'we see you', and acknowledging the risks involved in their mission.
The situation has drawn significant attention, reflecting ongoing tensions in the region and the intersection of humanitarian efforts and geopolitical conflict.
As of the latest updates, the Israeli authorities indicated that those who refuse to sign deportation documents would face judicial review, as outlined by Israeli law.
