Climate activist Greta Thunberg, alongside 11 fellow activists, embarked on a mission to Gaza aboard the sailing boat Madleen, departing from Catania, Italy, on Sunday afternoon. This initiative, organised by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aims to breach Israel’s blockade on Gaza, which has been enduring a severe humanitarian crisis. The activists intend to deliver aid and heighten global awareness of the situation in the territory, where the population is grappling with significant shortages of resources.
Thunberg expressed her emotional commitment to the cause, stating, "We are doing this because, no matter what odds we are against, we have to keep trying. The moment we stop trying is when we lose our humanity." She emphasised that the dangers of their mission pale in comparison to the silence surrounding what she termed a "live-streamed genocide."
The Israeli government, founded in the post-Holocaust era, refutes allegations of genocide, labelling them as anti-Semitic fabrications. Following recent escalations, Israel did relax its blockade, allowing limited humanitarian supplies into Gaza; however, experts warn that the region is facing the threat of famine if more assistance is not rendered. Aid agencies report that Israeli restrictions, combined with disruptions in law and order, are hampering the delivery of essential supplies to Gaza’s approximately two million residents.
Among those on the journey are Liam Cunningham, known for his role in Game of Thrones, and Rima Hassan, a Palestinian-descended European parliament member prohibited from entering Israel due to her opposition to its military actions. The activists anticipate a seven-day voyage to reach their destination, provided they do not encounter any interruptions.
This venture follows a previous attempt in May that was thwarted when another of the coalition’s vessels was reportedly attacked by drones, which they attribute to Israeli forces. This incident added to the ongoing tensions as Israel continues to conduct military operations in Gaza in response to Hamas, which instigated conflict by attacking southern Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to significant casualties and hostage situations.
In response to international criticisms, Israel asserts that its actions are directed at Hamas militants and not the civilian population. Many human rights advocates, however, insist that the conduct of the Israeli military constitutes acts of genocide. Activist Thiago Avila stated that breaking the blockade at sea is part of a larger strategy that includes land-based protests, such as an upcoming march set to reach the Rafah crossing.
As the global community watches, this sailing mission underscores the persistent call for humanitarian relief and political dialogue surrounding the ongoing crisis in Gaza.