Climate activist Greta Thunberg, now 22, has once again grabbed headlines - not for climate, but for her role in a bold Gaza-bound humanitarian mission aboard the vessel Madleen. The ship, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, departed Sicily in early June carrying symbolic aid (baby formula, rice, medical supplies) and aiming to challenge the Israeli naval blockade of Gaza.

On June 8, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the navy to intercept the Madleen, accusing the mission of being a propaganda stunt and claiming that Thunberg was indirectly supporting Hamas. Within 48 hours, Israeli forces boarded the vessel in international waters, detaining Thunberg and the twelve-person crew before redirecting the ship to Ashdod.

Thunberg and her fellow activists assert they were "kidnapped" in international waters, issuing prerecorded appeals for global solidarity. Israel insists all passengers are safe, labeling the mission unlawful, and plans to transfer the modest cargo through official humanitarian channels.

This incident marks a significant expansion of Thunberg’s activism - blending climate justice with human rights and geopolitics. It has instantly reignited debates on international law, the ethics of activism, and the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza.