Greta Thunberg Joins Gaza-Bound Flotilla from Tunisia
On Saturday, Greta Thunberg, the 22-year-old Swedish climate activist, made her way through Tunisian ports, dressed in a striking turquoise outfit, as she prepared to board a fleet aiming to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
Arriving at the Tunisian Vizalte, she joined a global flotilla described by its organizers as a “humanitarian maritime convoy.” Reports suggest that over 40 ships and around 700 activists from various countries are participating, according to Türkiye’s state-run news outlet.
Speaking from aboard the fleet, she expressed her frustration and dismay at how people across the world continue to let down the Palestinians. Thunberg accused Israel of attempting to take control of Gaza, insisting that the risks she faced during her journey were insignificant compared to those experienced by Palestinians daily.
There were claims from organizers that the fleet’s vessels had been affected by a suspected drone incident near the Tunisian coastline, but Tunisian authorities have dismissed these accusations as unfounded, saying the fire onboard was likely accidental.
Israel has historically criticized such flotillas, dismissing them as ineffective for the people of Gaza. In a previous incident in June, Israeli naval forces intercepted a vessel and detained Thunberg, later mocking the mission as a mere “selfie yacht” trip.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that there are appropriate means to supply aid to Gaza, which do not involve social media spectacles. Recently, the flotilla faced obstacles, having to turn back shortly after departing from Barcelona due to inclement weather.
Despite these challenges, the organizers remain determined, calling this effort “the largest humanitarian maritime convoy ever,” and are committed to breaking the blockade enforced by Israel.
Israel defends its blockade as necessary to prevent Hamas from smuggling weapons, particularly after the violent events of October 7, which resulted in significant loss of life and hostage situations.
