Greta Thunberg says she was “kidnapped” by Israeli forces while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. The 22-year-old activist and 11 others were aboard the Madleen, a British-flagged aid boat, when it was reportedly intercepted in international waters.
The Madleen was part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aiming to deliver food, baby formula, and supplies to Palestinians while drawing attention to the crisis in Gaza. In a pre-recorded video, Thunberg said: “If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped… I urge everyone to pressure the Swedish government to release us.”
SOS! the volunteers on 'Madleen' have been kidnapped by Israeli forces.
— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) June 9, 2025
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish citizen.
Pressure their foreign ministries and help us keep them safe!
Web: https://t.co/uCGmx8sn8j
X : @SweMFA
FB : @SweMFA
IG : swedishmfa#AllEyesOnMadeleen pic.twitter.com/76Myrg2Bnz
Israel rejected the claims, stating that the boat is safely heading to Israeli shores and passengers will return home. Officials say the group was unharmed and given food and water.
Israel criticized the mission as a “media provocation,” claiming it carried minimal aid compared to over 1,200 trucks that entered Gaza recently. A spokesperson added: “Delivering aid doesn’t require Instagram selfies.” The remaining supplies will be redirected through official humanitarian channels.