Israel has vowed to “act accordingly” against the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) as its aid ship Madleen, carrying Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and 11 other humanitarian workers, nears Gaza’s blockaded shores. The warning comes amid reports of aerial surveillance and growing fears of a repeat of Israel’s deadly 2010 raid on the Mavi Marmara, which left nine activists dead.
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Key Developments
Military Threat:
- Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin (IDF Spokesperson) warned Israel is “prepared” to intercept the vessel.
- Activists report nightly drone surveillance, including a Greek coast guard drone flying dangerously close—raising concerns of an imminent attack.
The Flotilla’s Mission:
- Carrying food, medical supplies, and solidarity activists to Gaza, where famine-like conditions persist under Israel’s 17-year blockade.
- Thunberg’s involvement has drawn global attention to the mission.
International Outcry:
- Over 498,000 protest letters sent to the UN, Israel, and world leaders demanding safe passage.
- FFC warns letters “won’t stop an attack”, urging stronger diplomatic intervention.
- Previous Flotilla Violence:
- Last month: FFC’s Conscience was drone-struck near Malta (suspected Israeli involvement).
- 2010: Israeli commandos killed 9 activists aboard the Mavi Marmara.
Why This Matters
- Gaza’s 2.3 million people face starvation, medicine shortages, and collapsing infrastructure.
- Israel’s blockade—condemned as collective punishment—restricts 95% of Gaza’s water from being drinkable.
- Aid groups say over 80% of Gazans rely on humanitarian assistance.
