Will Greta Thunberg and Activists on 'Selfie Yacht' Face Deportation from Israel?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold humanitarian mission, climate activist Greta Thunberg and eleven others aboard the 'Selfie Yacht' face deportation from Israel after their vessel was seized while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. This incident has sparked international outrage and calls for their immediate release. What happens next for these activists?
Key Takeaways
- Greta Thunberg and a group of activists were deported from Israel.
- The 'Selfie Yacht' aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
- The operation was condemned by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.
- International leaders called for the activists' immediate release.
- The incident highlights the complexities of humanitarian efforts in politically sensitive areas.
Tel Aviv, June 10 (NationPress) A total of twelve individuals, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, were taken to Ben Gurion Airport for deportation after their yacht intended for Gaza with humanitarian supplies was seized at the Israeli port of Ashdod.
This deportation comes after the Israeli military intercepted the vessel at sea.
According to a statement on X from the Israeli Foreign Ministry, "The passengers of the 'Selfie Yacht' have arrived at Ben Gurion Airport and will be returning to their home countries."
It was also noted that "Those who choose not to sign deportation documents will face a judicial authority."
The group of activists, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), aimed to deliver essential aid to Gaza, including rice and baby formula.
The yacht, known as Madleen, was reportedly intercepted approximately 185 kilometers off the Gaza coast.
A video shared by the group depicted Israeli forces boarding the ship while the activists raised their hands, with one of them confirming that no injuries occurred during the operation.
Post-seizure, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the activists underwent medical examinations and were shown a "horror film documenting the October 7 massacre" executed by Hamas.
"Upon seeing the content, they chose not to continue watching," Gallant claimed, accusing Thunberg and others of overlooking Hamas’s atrocities and "closing their eyes to the truth."
The FFC vehemently condemned the operation, alleging that Israeli forces "attacked" and "unlawfully boarded" the yacht.
The coalition maintained that the aid mission was purely humanitarian, aiming to provide relief to Gaza, which has faced considerable restrictions on aid due to Israel's blockade.
Passengers included citizens from Brazil, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Turkey.
In addition to Greta, notable figures such as Rima Hassan, a French Member of the European Parliament, and Omar Faiad, a French journalist from Al Jazeera, were part of the group.
French President Emmanuel Macron joined other leaders in urging Israel to promptly release the detained activists.
"We requested the return of the six French nationals to France as swiftly as possible," the French presidential office stated.
Macron emphasized France's dedication to safeguarding its nationals abroad, asserting that the nation is "vigilant" and "stands by all its nationals in peril."
The French government further insisted that Israel ensure the "protection" of the activists, with Macron describing the humanitarian blockade on Gaza as "a scandal" and a "disgrace."
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the complexities of the situation involving Greta Thunberg and her fellow activists aboard the 'Selfie Yacht.' While the intentions behind their mission were undoubtedly humanitarian, the geopolitical realities surrounding Gaza complicate the narrative. The call for humanitarian aid must be balanced with the security concerns of nations involved. An unbiased assessment acknowledges the rights of individuals to advocate for humanitarian causes while also respecting national laws and security protocols.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the activists deported from Israel?
The activists were deported after their yacht, the 'Selfie Yacht', was intercepted by Israeli forces while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
What was the purpose of the 'Selfie Yacht' mission?
The mission aimed to deliver essential supplies, including rice and baby formula, to the people of Gaza, who have faced significant aid restrictions.
Who else was on board the yacht besides Greta Thunberg?
The group included notable figures like Rima Hassan, a French Member of the European Parliament, and Omar Faiad, a French journalist with Al Jazeera, among others from various countries.
What was the international reaction to the deportation?
International leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have urged Israel to release the detained activists, emphasizing humanitarian concerns.
What are the implications of this incident for future humanitarian missions?
This incident highlights the challenges humanitarian missions face in politically sensitive regions and may deter future efforts due to security concerns.
