2025-06-08T12:11:00Z

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In a firm declaration, Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has vowed to take all necessary measures to prevent an aid boat, which includes renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg, from reaching the Gaza Strip. This statement was made on Sunday, June 8, 2025, amidst rising tensions related to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.

Katz emphasized that the Israeli government would not allow anyone to breach its naval blockade of the Palestinian territory, a military initiative designed to obstruct Hamas from importing arms and other materials perceived to threaten Israeli security. This blockade has been a point of contention and criticism from various humanitarian organizations and activists.

Aboard the vessel named Madleen, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, are Thunberg and 11 other activists. Their mission is not only to deliver crucial humanitarian aid but also to raise awareness of the escalating humanitarian disaster faced by the people of Gaza. The Madleen set sail from Sicily last Sunday with high hopes of reaching Gaza’s territorial waters, where the activists planned to demonstrate solidarity with the Palestinians.

Among the passengers is Rima Hassan, a French member of the European Parliament with Palestinian heritage. Hassan has been vocal about her opposition to Israeli policies regarding Palestinians and has previously faced restrictions barring her entry into Israel due to her activism.

In the wake of heightened tensions, after a total blockade lasting three months aimed at increasing pressure on Hamas, Israel began allowing limited humanitarian aid into Gaza last month. However, humanitarian workers have warned that the situation remains dire, with threats of famine looming unless the blockade and ongoing conflict come to an end.

This is not the first attempt by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition to breach the blockade; last month, their efforts were thwarted when one of their vessels was intercepted and reportedly attacked by two drones while sailing in international waters near Malta. The group attributed the attack to Israeli forces, claiming it caused significant damage to the ship's front section, further escalating tensions between the two sides.