Greta Thunberg detained as Israel halts Gaza aid flotilla
- Greta Thunberg was part of an aid flotilla intercepted by the Israeli military.
- The Israelis stated the blockade's purpose is to prevent weapon imports to Hamas.
- The event has sparked significant international discussions and concerns regarding humanitarian efforts.
On September 30, 2025, in the waters near Gaza, Greta Thunberg was detained by the Israeli military when they intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was attempting to break the blockade imposed by Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the operation had been successful, with several ships being boarded and activists detained. Thunberg, aboard the Alma aid vessel, was part of a larger flotilla consisting of 47 boats aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians. The Israeli authorities stated that the blockade aims to prevent the flow of weapons to Hamas, which controls Gaza. The incident, which occurred during Yom Kippur, resulted in significant tension as it involved the military intervention against a group of activists advocating for Palestinian rights. The flotilla had been warned multiple times not to attempt to breach the blockade but chose to proceed regardless, citing their intention to deliver much-needed supplies to those in Gaza. Activists aboard were reported to have faced aggressive measures from the IDF, including the use of water cannons against smaller boats accompanying the main vessels. As news of the interception of the flotilla spread, social media platforms became active with various reactions. Supporters of Thunberg and the flotilla expressed concern over the military's actions, viewing them as a harsh response to a humanitarian effort. Many activists condemned the blockade, arguing that it exacerbates the suffering of people in Gaza and that international law supports their right to deliver aid. Subsequently, the IDF stated that all detained activists would be brought to Israel and deported. Thunberg was specifically mentioned in an official statement, with authorities confirming her safe detainment. This incident marks another chapter in Thunberg's activism, as she previously organized a similar flotilla in June 2025 that was intercepted but without any further action taken against her. The ongoing Israeli blockade remains a contentious issue, drawing international attention and sparking debates about humanitarian efforts and political interventions.