Tensions are rising in the Eastern Mediterranean as the Israeli military prepares to intercept a Gaza-bound ship, Madleen, carrying pro-Palestinian activists, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.
The vessel, part of a mission organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, departed from Sicily and is sailing under a UK flag. Its stated mission is to deliver humanitarian supplies to Gaza and challenge what activists call Israel’s “illegal blockade” and “ongoing genocide.”
The flotilla carries 12 activists from various nations, including France, Sweden, Germany, and Brazil. Notably aboard is European Parliament member Rima Hassan, previously deported by Israel. The activists are transporting baby formula, medical gear, water filters, and children’s prosthetics.
Israeli officials have warned the ship will not be allowed to enter Gaza. A government source said the IDF is prepared to intercept the vessel before it reaches Israeli territorial waters. Hassan’s diplomatic status reportedly delayed early action, but enforcement is now imminent.
The mission has drawn global attention, both for its high-profile passengers and controversial affiliations. Hassan previously described Hamas’ October 7 attack as “legitimate,” and others onboard have voiced support for Iran’s missile strikes and Hezbollah.
The activists claim they were also forced to divert their route to rescue stranded migrants in the Eastern Mediterranean, accusing Greece of assisting Israeli surveillance using drones.
This is the latest in a string of flotilla missions over the past 15 years challenging Israel’s control of Gaza’s coastline.
Israel, meanwhile, faces intensifying criticism for its blockade, now in its 20th month of war with Hamas. The UK and France have publicly condemned the siege and called for unrestricted humanitarian access to the strip.
All eyes now turn to the Mediterranean, where a confrontation at sea looms.
