Thunberg, Activists Launch Sea Mission to Gaza from Italy

Climate activist Greta Thunberg has joined 11 other human rights advocates on a high-risk voyage to the Gaza Strip, setting sail from Catania, Italy, aboard the Madleen, a boat operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition—the goal: to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid.

The mission comes amid growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 2 million Palestinians face severe shortages of food, medicine, and shelter. Israel says the blockade is meant to pressure Hamas to release hostages taken in the October 7, 2023 attack, but critics say it’s deepening civilian suffering.

Joining Thunberg are actor Liam Cunningham and French MEP Rima Hassan, among others. The crew hopes to reach Gaza in seven days unless intercepted. A previous flotilla mission was halted after an alleged drone attack near Malta.

Activists say their action is part of a broader global effort, including an upcoming land march to the Rafah crossing.