A massive activist flotilla bound for Gaza’s shores, which included Greta Thunberg on board, was interdicted by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Thursday after multiple warnings to turn back.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, numbering 40 vessels, was stopped in international waters just outside the Israeli blockade on Gaza, and Thunberg was detained along with the other activists. Previously, Thunberg was deported from Israel in June after attempting another landing with the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.
“The Hamas-Sumud provocation is over,” the Israeli Foreign Ministry said on X Thursday. “None of the Hamas-Sumud provocation yachts has succeeded in its attempt to enter an active combat zone or breach the lawful naval blockade. All the passengers are safe and in good health. They are making their way safely to Israel, from where they will be deported to Europe. One last vessel of this provocation remains at a distance. If it approaches, its attempt to enter an active combat zone and breach the blockade will also be prevented.”
Hamas-Sumud passengers on their yachts are making their way safely and peacefully to Israel, where their deportation procedures to Europe will begin. The passengers are safe and in good health. pic.twitter.com/pzzitP5jN8
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) October 2, 2025
Thunberg posted a dramatic video after the flotilla was halted, describing her detainment as an abduction and demanding her “immediate release.”
“My name is Greta Thunberg . I’m a citizen of Sweden. If you are watching this video, I have been abducted and taken against my will by Israeli forces.. Please tell my government to demand my and the others’ immediate release.”
JUSTICE FOR GRETA pic.twitter.com/sg5p8Dq4LI
— ADAM (@AdameMedia) October 2, 2025
“My name is Greta Thunberg . I’m a citizen of Sweden. If you are watching this video, I have been abducted and taken against my will by Israeli forces.. Please tell my government to demand my and the others’ immediate release.”The boats set sail from ports in Spain, Italy Tunisia, and Greece over the last few weeks, all converging in the Mediterranean Sea outside of the Levant, according to the Wall Street Journal. Spain and Italy also offered to give the Flotilla protection with their own navies, although Israel assured the nations that they would not use lethal force against the activists.
Activists reported being sprayed with water cannons, some of which allegedly contained “skunk water,” a foul-smelling concoction meant to deter rioters.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry declined to comment.
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