Israel Prepares for Deportation of Activists from Intercepted Gaza Aid Ship

Israel's interception of the Madleen highlights ongoing tensions over the Gaza blockade and efforts to deliver aid to the besieged region.

In a recent development, the Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed on Tuesday that passengers who were detained aboard a Gaza-bound aid ship, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, are set for deportation. The ship, named Madleen and operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was intercepted by Israeli forces on Monday while attempting to breach the naval blockade imposed on Gaza.

According to the ministry's statement, the detainees were taken to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and are expected to be flown back to their home countries within hours. The ministry did note that any passengers who resist deportation could face judicial proceedings. As of now, it remains unclear whether any of the passengers have chosen to refuse leaving Israel.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition leads a global grassroots effort to protest Israel’s ongoing naval blockade by sending ships laden with humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Earlier this month, the Madleen departed from Sicily, carrying with it supplies intended for the enclave.

Israel has firmly stated its intentions to prevent the ship from reaching its destination, asserting that its military would utilize all necessary means to uphold the blockade. Following the interception, the Israeli Foreign Ministry indicated that the Madleen had been forcibly redirected towards Israeli shores. Meanwhile, representatives from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition have alleged that their activists were "kidnapped" by the Israeli military.

This incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region and ongoing discussions regarding humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza.