Israeli troops attacked the Gaza-bound humanitarian aid ship Madleen, which was carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg, French Member of Parliament Rima Hassan, and actor Liam Cunningham. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), which sponsored the mission, stated that the Israeli military intercepted the ship while it was still in international waters and then cut off all communication.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz acknowledged the interception, saying he had instructed the military to block the flotilla from reaching Gaza.

Israeli Military Intercepts Aid Ship

The Israeli Navy seized the Madleen last night. The ship was trying to bring aid to Gaza despite the Israel’s long time navy blockade. The FFC indicated quadcopters circling the vessel and spraying it with a white paint-like substance. The group also reported that Israeli forces jammed their radio signals and transmitted jarring noises over their communication network.

The FFC released a photo showing the crew sitting inside the ship with lifejackets on and their hands raised. Although no Israeli troops appeared in the image, the photo intensified fears about the crew’s safety.

High-Profile Passengers on Board

Among those on board were internationally known personalities. Climate activist Greta Thunberg boarded the mission in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Actor Liam Cunningham, renowned for his appearance in Game of Thrones, and French Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan were also aboard the flotilla. It attracted international attention to have them on the aid mission.

While #Madleen must be released immediately, every Mediterranean port should send boats with aid, solidarity, and humanity to Gaza. They shall sail together—united, they will be unstoppable.#BreakingTheSiege is a legal duty for states, and a moral imperative for all of us. pic.twitter.com/FeaD1Fq4Dk

— Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur oPt (@FranceskAlbs) June 9, 2025

Israel ridiculed the trip, referring to the leader of the Madleen as a “selfie yacht” carrying “celebrities” despite being purportedly filled with serious aid workers. Notwithstanding, the FFC insists that the vessel remains loaded with humanitarian aid destined for Gaza’s besieged residents.

Israeli Leadership Defends Action

Defense Minister Israel Katz took full responsibility for the interception. “I’ve ordered the IDF to stop the Madleen flotilla from reaching Gaza,” he said in a statement. Israel has consistently opposed unauthorized sea missions to Gaza, citing security concerns and its blockade policy.

The FFC reported on Monday morning that they had lost contact with the crew. They alleged the ship remained in international waters when Israel attacked. The unexpected silence and videos of drones emitting substances have alarmed human rights activists.

Since there has been no word from the passengers, activists and fans all over the world call for transparency and an urgent update on the condition of the crew.