ISLAMABAD: Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has released a pre-recorded video calling for the release of herself and hundreds of others detained after Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla earlier this week.
WATCH THE VIDEO:
The flotilla, comprising more than 40 civilian boats and around 500 activists, was bound for Gaza with symbolic aid including food and medicine. Organizers said the mission was a nonviolent protest against Israel’s blockade.
Israeli naval forces intercepted the convoy in international waters about 70 nautical miles off Gaza on October 1 and 2. Videos showed water cannons and boarding operations before most of the boats were seized and their passengers taken to Ashdod for processing and deportation.
Israel defended the action as enforcement of a “lawful naval blockade,” while flotilla organizers denounced it as “an illegal attack” on humanitarians. As of October 3, one vessel, the Marinette, was still sailing toward Gaza.
The raid drew international condemnation, with Turkey calling it “an act of terror” and Colombia’s president expelling Israeli diplomats. Amnesty International labeled it “a brazen assault,” while Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the flotilla offered “no benefit” to Palestinians.
Israel has maintained a blockade on Gaza since 2007. The latest flotilla attempt came amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in the enclave, where UN agencies warn famine and disease are spreading rapidly.
