The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have signaled their readiness to intercept the vessel Madleen, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s latest attempt to breach Israel’s naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. The ship, which departed from Catania, Italy, on June 1, carries 12 international activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, French Member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan, and Irish actor Liam Cunningham. The Madleen is transporting symbolic humanitarian aid — such as baby formula, medical supplies, and water purification kits — to draw attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
IDF spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated, “We have gained experience in recent years, and we will act accordingly,” indicating the military’s preparedness to take action should the flotilla attempt to breach the blockade. During the voyage, activists reported being monitored by drones, which were later identified as belonging to the Greek coast guard.
The New York Post continues:
Defrin did not elaborate on what action would be taken. However, last month an earlier Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship was damaged just before it arrived in Malta to pick up Thunberg for a similar mission. The group accused Israel of attacking the vessel with drones.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has admitted that its boat, the Madleen, is unlikely to make it to Gaza with its token aid.
Still, Thunberg and her pals have made the most of the trip from the Sicilian port of Catania in southern Italy, filming content including them swimming in the sea.
The group claims the voyage is “a non-violent, direct action to challenge Israel’s illegal siege and escalating war crimes.”
“We are doing this because no matter what odds we are against, we have to keep trying, because the moment we stop trying is when we lose our humanity,” Thunberg said as she broke down in tears.
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has a history of organizing similar missions to Gaza. Notably, in May 2010, a flotilla led by the Turkish ship Mavi Marmara was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters. The ensuing confrontation resulted in the deaths of nine activists and injuries to several others, as well as to Israeli soldiers. The incident drew widespread international condemnation and led to a deterioration of Israel-Turkey relations.
As the Madleen approaches its destination, tensions remain high, with the IDF closely monitoring its progress and the international community watching as well.
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To become a leader, find a parade and jump out in front of it.
What a pathetic gimmick!