Overview

• Defence Minister Israel Katz instructed the military to prevent the Madleen flotilla from reaching Gaza, labeling Thunberg an “antisemite” and the activists “Hamas propaganda mouthpieces.”
• The ship departed Sicily with 12 activists and critical humanitarian cargo, including baby formula, medical supplies and water desalination kits.
• Israel has maintained an 18-year blockade on Gaza and enforced an 11-week total aid ban before partially reopening crossings on May 19.
• The Freedom Flotilla Coalition has spent nearly two decades challenging the siege, and its Conscience vessel was struck by drones near Maltese waters last month.
• Humanitarian agencies warn Gaza’s civilians face acute shortages of food, medicine and shelter as the blockade intensifies.