Macron calls Gaza humanitarian blockade a 'shameful scandal'

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
9 Jun 2025 23:51
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French President Macron condemns the humanitarian blockade on Gaza as a "scandal," demanding a truce and the release of French activists seized by "Israel".

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Palestinians struggle to get donated food at a community kitchen in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Monday, June 2, 2025. (AP)

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday condemned the humanitarian blockade imposed on Gaza by "Israel", slamming it as a "scandal" and "shameful", while urging the immediate reopening of humanitarian supply routes and a ceasefire in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Tens of thousands rallied across France, including in Paris and at least five other cities, after "Israel" intercepted the Madleen humanitarian boat attempting to reach Gaza. The vessel was carrying a dozen international activists, among them Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg and six French nationals.

The protests were organized by left-wing parties, including France Unbowed (LFI), whose leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon described the seizure of the boat by the "Israeli" military as "piracy".

France demands release of its nationals

President Macron called for the immediate release of the detained French nationals and said his office had requested their return to France without delay.

"France is vigilant and stands by all its nationals when they are in danger," Macron stated, emphasizing that the French government had also demanded that "Israel" ensure the protection of all activists aboard the seized vessel.

Reiterating France’s opposition to the blockade, Macron described the situation in Gaza as a “disgrace,” renewing his call for a humanitarian truce and unimpeded aid access to the Palestinian enclave.

Madleen captured, activists detained

In the latest update, "Israel" confirmed that occupation authorities detained the activists on the Madleen after intercepting and towing it toward Ashdod port.

The Madleen ship, launched by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was about 100 nautical miles (185km) from Gaza when it was captured.

Israeli drones encircled the ship at about 3:00 am local time. The drones began spraying it with a white, paint-like substance before the Israeli commandos eventually took hold of the ship. The nature of the sprayed substance remains unclear.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed that all pro-Palestine activists on board will be deported to their home countries.