Activists Report Israeli Troops Boarding Aid Ship Bound for Gaza

Sun Dec 14 2025 06:15:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Activists claim Israeli forces have intercepted a humanitarian aid yacht on its way to Gaza, featuring prominent climate activist Greta Thunberg.

The situation remains fluid as the Freedom Flotilla Coalition reports the ship Madleen lost communication, raising concerns over the safety of those on board.

Israeli activists have reported that the Madleen, attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, was boarded by Israeli troops. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the mission, shared this alarming news on the Telegram messaging app, stating that "Connection has been lost" regarding the vessel. A recent photo circulated by the group depicts individuals on the yacht in life jackets, with their hands raised in a gesture of surrender.

Among those on board the yacht is Greta Thunberg, renowned for her activism in combating climate change. The ship is currently believed to be situated off the coast of Egypt. In response to the vessel’s endeavors to breach the blockade imposed on Gaza, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued orders for military intervention. Israel has long maintained that the blockade is essential to prevent arms smuggling to Hamas, which governs Gaza.

This evolving story is subject to updates as information continues to come in. For immediate updates, readers can turn to the BBC News App or follow @BBCBreaking on social media for real-time alerts.