Activists set sail for Gaza with Greta Thunberg on board

Activists intend to bring aid supplies to the Gaza Strip using a sailing ship, with Swedish activist Greta Thunberg on board.

The Madleen has set sail from the Sicilian city of Catania, a spokeswoman for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition confirmed on Sunday, adding that 12 activists from various countries are on board.

The activists had announced their intention to use the ship to break through what they described as "Israel's illegal blockade" of the coastal strip and to bring "humanitarian aid, hope and solidarity to Gaza."

Baby food and medical supplies are reportedly on board. The group aims, according to their own statements, to draw international attention to the humanitarian situation on the ground with their action.

A month ago, activists had already attempted to show solidarity with Gaza with an aid boat. At that time, a fire broke out on one of the ships they were using near the Mediterranean island of Malta. Activists said it was a drone attack, while the Maltese government rejected this.

Thunberg had previously wanted to join her fellow activists on board. The 22-year-old became known for her determined fight for more action on climate change, but for some time now, she has been particularly advocating for the Palestinians. In doing so, she repeatedly criticizes Israel's actions in the Gaza war.

Israel had recently slightly eased a nearly three-month blockade of food, medicine and other essential supplies to the Gaza Strip. Israel says it wants to pressure the Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement to release the hostages it is holding in the coastal area.

Israel's offensive on Gaza, which began after the Hamas attacks in October 2023, has now lasted for more than a year and a half.