Greta Thunberg arrested as 'Israel' intercepts Gaza aid Flotilla
3 Min Read
"Israel" arrested Greta Thunberg after intercepting the Global Sumud Flotilla, a 40-ship mission with 500 activists bringing humanitarian aid to Gaza.
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Activists onboard a flotilla of vessels sailing toward Gaza say the Israeli navy has begun intercepting their vessels as they approach the besieged Gaza on October 1, 2025. (AP)
Israeli occupation forces (IOF) arrested Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg after the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian mission carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Thunberg was on board the vessel Alma, one of six ships seized and diverted to the port of Ashdod.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry published a video showing Thunberg being taken into custody. The flotilla, made up of more than 40 civilian boats and around 500 participants, including parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists, was intercepted about 120 kilometers off Gaza’s coast.
🚨 BREAKING 🚨
— Radio Islam (@radioislam) October 1, 2025
Israeli forces have kidnapped Greta Thunberg and dozens of Global Sumud Flotilla participants, including journalists. More boats are being stormed as the flotilla—carrying baby formula for Gaza’s starving children—is under attack.#GlobalSumudFlotilla… pic.twitter.com/rz7f0CoD8k
Israeli Navy seizes 6 vessels in international waters
At least 20 Israeli military vessels surrounded and boarded ships in the flotilla as they attempted to breach the maritime blockade and deliver humanitarian supplies. The seized vessels included the Sirus, Alma, Spectra, Hoga, Adara, and Deir Yassin.
Witnesses reported that Israeli forces used water cannons, drones, and stun grenades against boats still attempting to advance toward Gaza. Several activists were forcibly detained and transferred to Israeli ports.
Global condemnation and diplomatic fallout
The interception sparked widespread criticism. Former UK diplomat Craig Murray described the action as “plainly illegal,” noting that the flotilla was in international waters and accusing "Israel" of committing acts of piracy and collective punishment.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced that all Israeli diplomats in Colombia would be expelled, denouncing the arrests as a “new international crime.” Mexico and Spain also demanded assurances for the safety of their citizens on board.
European governments have called for urgent clarification, while the French Foreign Ministry said it was closely monitoring the situation and prioritizing the safety of French nationals involved.
Protests erupt across Europe and Latin America
The attack on the Gaza aid flotilla triggered large demonstrations across Europe. Thousands gathered in Rome, Turin, Bologna, and Naples, with protesters occupying train stations and university buildings. In Berlin, demonstrators rallied at the central station, chanting “Free Palestine.”
Protests were also reported in Brussels, where crowds marched toward the Belgian foreign ministry, and across Latin America, where solidarity actions condemned the raid.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, organizers stressed, was a humanitarian mission to Gaza, aimed at breaking the blockade and establishing a sea corridor for aid. Despite international appeals, "Israel" maintains its blockade, continuing to restrict humanitarian access.
BREAKING:
— sarah (@sahouraxo) October 1, 2025
From Naples to Milan, Rome to Florence, Livorno, Genoa, Perugia — Italy rises in protest tonight against Israel’s attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla!
🇮🇹 🔥 pic.twitter.com/icjgsdxkTQ
