In a dramatic twist amid escalating tensions, the Gaza-bound aid flotilla spearheaded by climate activist Greta Thunberg saw most of its vessels intercepted by Israeli forces, but one ship, the Mikeno, reportedly broke through the blockade to reach Palestinian waters. The operation, part of the Global Sumud initiative, involved over 40 boats carrying humanitarian supplies to challenge Israel's long-standing naval restrictions on Gaza. Thunberg, along with hundreds of international activists, was detained early Wednesday as Israeli commandos boarded the ships in international waters.
However, the Mikeno, a smaller vessel in the convoy, evaded capture and anchored safely off Gaza's coast, according to reports from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. Activists on board confirmed delivering a modest cargo of rice, flour, medical kits, and baby formula—symbolic yet poignant amid the ongoing crisis. Al Jazeera's live coverage highlighted the chaos, with footage showing naval helicopters hovering and speedboats closing in on the fleet. Indeed, the network described the interceptions as a stark reminder of the blockade's grip, now in its 18th year.
Global outcry followed swiftly. Protests erupted in cities from London to Istanbul, with critics slamming the detentions as disproportionate. More than 450 people, including European lawmakers and Thunberg herself, were taken to Ashdod port, where they faced deportation orders. Israel defended the action, citing security threats and vowing to prevent any breach that could aid Hamas. Yet, the success of the Mikeno has emboldened supporters, who see it as a rare win for nonviolent resistance.
Moreover, this isn't Thunberg's first brush with the issue; she joined an earlier flotilla attempt in June, only to be turned back. The latest effort underscores the persistent humanitarian plight in Gaza, where aid access remains severely limited. As Thunberg awaits deportation, her message of defiance echoes louder.
Still, with the Mikeno's arrival raising hopes for more breakthroughs, one wonders if this fragile victory will spark wider international action or merely intensify the standoff.