Greta Thunberg and 11 other activists were detained by Israeli forces while sailing on the Madleen, a British-flagged boat delivering aid to Gaza. The mission was organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. Thunberg had recorded a message before the seizure, warning, “We are being intercepted and kidnapped in international waters.”

In the video, Thunberg urged supporters to pressure Sweden for their release. The footage quickly went viral, drawing international attention and raising questions about the legality of the interception.

By June 9, the group had been brought to Ashdod for medical checks. Thunberg agreed to deportation and flew to France. However, five French activists refused to sign deportation orders and will face Israeli judicial review.

France confirmed consular visits to the detainees. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition condemned the arrests, calling them “unlawful” and demanding the release of all volunteers and the return of the seized aid. The case has renewed global scrutiny of Israel’s blockade and the treatment of humanitarian missions.