Overview

• Israeli forces intercepted the Madleen sailboat in international waters on Monday, detaining four French nationals—including MEP Rima Hassan—and eight other activists for trying to breach the Gaza blockade.
• Returned activist Baptiste Andre detailed mistreatment during detention, citing sleep deprivation and restricted access to food and water, while journalist Omar Faiad reported threats against Hassan.
• Prime Minister François Bayrou accused the activists of exploiting the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for political attention, prompting left-wing lawmakers to condemn Paris’s initial silence.
• Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stressed that France’s priority is an immediate Gaza ceasefire, the release of Hamas-held hostages, and unfettered humanitarian aid, and confirmed consular visits to all detainees.
• The United Nations has warned of a looming famine in Gaza, and France and Saudi Arabia will co-host a UN meeting later this month to discuss Palestinian state recognition.