Israel's interception of the Madleen, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition aimed at delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, has resulted in the deportation of six activists. Among those deported was Rima Hassan, a French-Palestinian member of the European Parliament, who announced her release via social media. The activists had spent over 72 hours in custody following their yacht's interception about 185 kilometers off the coast of Gaza.
Adalah, an Israeli human rights organization that provided legal support for the activists, condemned their mistreatment in custody, alleging that they faced punitive measures and solitary confinement. The organization demanded the immediate release of all eight activists involved in the mission, asserting their detention and subsequent deportation constitute a violation of international law.
The Israeli foreign ministry referred to the Madleen expedition as a "selfie yacht" carrying a minimal amount of aid, dismissing its purpose as undermining ongoing humanitarian efforts in Gaza. They stated that any unauthorized attempts to breach their naval blockade are illegal. Aid transported by the activists purportedly included baby formula and medicine, aimed at alleviating the severe humanitarian crisis faced by Gaza's 2.1 million residents.
Since the cessation of humanitarian deliveries and the initiation of military operations in Gaza in March, the situation has worsened, with the UN warning of catastrophic hunger levels among its population. Following a recent escalation in military offensive, Israel has partially eased the blockade but asserted that aid distribution will now occur through approved channels, a move criticized by the UN and various aid organizations for contradicting humanitarian principles.
The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has led to significant casualties, with the Gaza health ministry reporting over 55,000 deaths in recent military engagements. As tensions persist, families and aid organizations continue to advocate for better conditions and access to essential resources.
