Greta Thunberg 'Kidnapped' in International Waters: Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza-Bound Aid Boat

International Incident: Israeli Forces Intercept Boat Carrying Greta Thunberg On June 9th, 2025, Israeli forces reportedly boarded the Madleen, a charity vessel carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and a group of activists sailing to Gaza. The incident occurred in international waters, according to Thunberg, who released a video statement claiming the crew had been "intercepted and kidnapped." The video shows footage of the Israeli military boarding the boat and Thunberg's emotional appeal for help. "If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces," Thunberg stated in the video, expressing concern for the crew's safety. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, organizers of the voyage, confirmed losing contact with the Madleen earlier on Monday. The Israeli government has yet to release an official statement on the incident, though Minister Israel Katz stated that no one would be allowed to break the naval blockade of Gaza. The Madleen, which left Sicily a week earlier with twelve people onboard, aimed to deliver humanitarian aid and raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The incident raises significant international concern and questions about the legality of the Israeli actions in international waters.