On June 9, 2025, Israeli forces intercepted the British-flagged aid vessel Madleen carrying Greta Thunberg and 11 activists near Gaza and escorted it to Ashdod port. The interception occurred amid Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas following the Oct. 7, 2023 militant attacks that killed over 1,200 people and took 251 hostages.
Israel Katz, Israel’s defense minister, directed authorities to present detained activists with a 45-minute video depicting the Oct. 7 attacks before they are sent back to their home countries. Katz insisted that Greta, whom he described as antisemitic, along with those supporting Hamas, should recognize the true nature of the Hamas terrorist organization, including the violent acts it has committed, and understand that Israel’s military actions are in defense against this group.
The interception prevented the Madleen from breaking Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza and illustrated ongoing tensions surrounding aid deliveries amid conflict and security concerns.
