Greta Thunberg was deported from Israel after the navy seized her Gaza-bound yacht in international waters, escalating tensions over activist missions and naval blockades.
At a Glance
- The Israeli navy intercepted a British-flagged aid yacht carrying Thunberg en route to Gaza
- Thunberg and three others were deported after calling the seizure “kidnapping”
- Eight activists remain in Israeli custody, contesting their detention in court
- Israeli officials dismissed the mission as a “publicity stunt”
- Thunberg’s decision to fly home sparked backlash over her no-flight environmental stance
Interception in international waters
Israeli forces intercepted the yacht Madleen on June 9 in international waters, about 125 miles off Gaza, as it carried humanitarian cargo including baby formula and medical supplies. Authorities labeled it a “selfie yacht” publicity stunt and rerouted the aid through official humanitarian channels.
The vessel was part of a symbolic effort to raise awareness about Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. While the boarding was reportedly nonviolent, critics argue the seizure violated maritime law given it occurred in international waters.
Watch a report: Israel deports Greta Thunberg after Gaza aid boat seized.
Deportation and public backlash
Thunberg was deported alongside three fellow activists and flown to Sweden via France, despite her long-standing opposition to air travel on environmental grounds. Upon landing, she condemned the Israeli navy for “kidnapping us in international waters”, asserting the mission had no ties to militant groups and was entirely humanitarian in nature.
Meanwhile, eight activists—including journalists and a French MEP—remained in custody pending court review. Israeli officials claimed the group had been shown footage of Hamas’s October 7 attack during their detainment, framing it as context for the interception.
Legal and diplomatic fallout
International law experts and human rights groups condemned the seizure and deportation, calling it a potential breach of maritime sovereignty. The incident has sparked wider debate over the legality of naval blockades, especially when humanitarian missions are involved.
Thunberg’s return by plane also stirred controversy among critics, who accused her of hypocrisy for “polluting the climate all the way back home”. Supporters counter that the activists were forcibly deported and had no choice in their mode of transport.
As legal proceedings continue and global attention sharpens on the Gaza crisis, Thunberg’s removal has reignited long-running debates about protest, blockade enforcement, and the boundaries of activist intervention in conflict zones.
