Israel reportedly intercepted a flotilla bound for Gaza, detaining several activists including climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.

Organisers of the mission allege that Israel “illegally” blocked the flotilla which aimed to breach the naval blockade imposed on Gaza.  The detained individuals were part of an international effort to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and draw attention to the region’s humanitarian crisis.

Thunberg, known globally for her environmental activism, joined the mission to spotlight the humanitarian situation in Gaza and to protest what she and supporters describe as oppressive measures that harm civilians.

The interception has provoked strong reaction from human rights groups and activists, who argue that the action is a violation of rights to protest and deliver aid.  Meanwhile, Israel’s enforcement of the blockade has long been controversial, with supporters saying it is necessary for security, and critics saying it exacerbates the suffering of civilians.