Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has joined a controversial maritime aid mission aimed at challenging Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip, reigniting debate over her political activism and global influence.
The 22-year-old activist is currently aboard the “Madleen,” a vessel operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), a group that has previously organized attempts to deliver aid to Gaza by sea.
The group’s latest mission seeks to deliver humanitarian supplies to the war-torn region and draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Meet some of the panelists, volunteers and supporters joining the launch of ‘Madleen’ in Catania, Sicily about to sail to break Israel’s illegal siege of Gaza. ⛵️#AllEyesOnDeck #BreakTheSiege https://t.co/ZoCnr45S3I @RimaHas pic.twitter.com/IqAhOSHBv9
— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) May 29, 2025
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In a statement reported by Al Jazeera, Thunberg said, “The world cannot be silent bystanders. We are seeing a systematic starvation of 2 million people. Every single one of us has a moral obligation to do everything we can to fight for a free Palestine.”
Activist Greta Thunberg says silence is more dangerous than sailing to Gaza, as she boarded a vessel that will try to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza.
The Gaza Freedom Flotilla had to abandon its last attempt on May 2 when it was bombed. pic.twitter.com/ieecZ8ps0E
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) June 1, 2025
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Her participation in the flotilla comes amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
The World Health Organization has warned of famine-like conditions, with three-quarters of the region’s population reportedly suffering from food insecurity.
Thunberg’s involvement has prompted backlash from commentators and online users who accuse her of aligning with Hamas, the designated terrorist organization that governs Gaza.
Former Climate change activist Greta Thunberg is sailing to Gaza in protest against Israel’s operation
She went from supporting the environment to supporting terrorist organizations.
Wonder if Hamas will give them a warm welcome? pic.twitter.com/gpM3XzSNVv
— Frankie™️ (@B7frankH) May 31, 2025
Critics argue that the mission, while framed as humanitarian, indirectly lends legitimacy to Hamas.
“She’s sailing to Gaza like it’s some sort of idyllic holiday destination,” said Danica De Giorgio, a host with Sky News Australia, as quoted by the New York Post.
Communications consultant Prue MacSween added, “She’s such an urban terrorist herself, she’ll fit right in.”
Social media platforms also saw a wave of critical responses.
One user commented, “Let’s hope it’s a one-way voyage,” while others questioned the intent and efficacy of the mission.
The current voyage follows a failed FFC operation in May, when another ship reportedly en route to Gaza was allegedly hit by a drone strike near Malta.
While Israel has not claimed responsibility for the incident, speculation remains widespread.
Israel has long maintained a naval blockade on Gaza, citing security concerns and the need to restrict the flow of weapons into the hands of Hamas and other militant groups.
The blockade has been upheld by successive Israeli governments and has the support of various international actors concerned with regional security.
Thunberg’s advocacy has previously included vocal criticism of Israel.
In October, she faced backlash for failing to explicitly condemn Hamas following its coordinated attack on Israeli civilians.
She later issued a statement clarifying her position, condemning all acts of violence against civilians while maintaining her support for Palestinian rights.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, composed of various international activists and organizations, claims its objective is to break the blockade and deliver food, medical supplies, and other necessities to Gaza’s civilian population.
Israeli officials have previously described such missions as politically motivated and potentially dangerous, arguing that legitimate aid channels already exist and can be coordinated through international organizations.
There has been no official Israeli response yet regarding the Madleen’s current voyage.
It remains unclear whether the vessel will be intercepted before reaching Gaza’s coast, as has occurred with similar flotilla efforts in the past.
Thunberg’s decision to join the mission comes as she continues to expand her activism beyond climate change into broader geopolitical and humanitarian issues.
While her supporters view this as a sign of growing global awareness, critics argue that such actions risk undermining her credibility and entangling her in highly complex international conflicts.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has not disclosed the exact location of the Madleen or its expected arrival date, citing security concerns.
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