The Madleen is a ship launched by international activists on June 1, 2025, from Sicily, Italy, with the goal of bringing humanitarian aid into Gaza. It was part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a group committed to breaking the Israeli naval blockade on Gaza.

The ship carried a small amount of symbolic aid, including baby formula, flour, rice, diapers, medical kits, and prosthetic limbs. On board were 12 people from different countries, including well-known activist Greta Thunberg and European Parliament member Rima Hassan.

The mission was not just about delivering supplies—it was a political and humanitarian message. The ship was named after Madleen Culab, the first female fisherwoman in Gaza, to symbolize strength and resilience.

Activists hoped the journey would raise global awareness about the suffering in Gaza and demand an end to the blockade. They believed the cost of silence was greater than the risk of sailing.

On June 9, just a few days after setting sail, the Israeli navy intercepted the Madleen in international waters, over 180 kilometers from Gaza. The ship was towed to Ashdod, and all passengers were detained.

According to reports, the Israeli military used drones, blocked communications, and possibly used irritants during the seizure. Four people, including Greta Thunberg, have already been deported. The remaining eight are still being held and may also face deportation or travel bans.

This event sparked global criticism. Human rights organizations and UN experts have stated that seizing a peaceful aid ship in international waters is a violation of international law. They argue that humanitarian missions should be protected. Israel, however, defends its actions by claiming the blockade is necessary for its security and that the ship posed a political threat.

Many people are now asking why the aid was symbolic and whether the mission was legal. The answer is that the goal was never just to deliver goods, but to force the world to pay attention to Gaza’s crisis.

The legal debate continues, but many experts argue that international law supports the activists’ right to sail with humanitarian aid. Even though the ship did not reach Gaza, the mission succeeded in putting pressure on governments and raising public awareness.