France’s foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said the Israeli authorities arrested five French activists, and they will be produced before an Israeli judge.
‘One of them has agreed to voluntary departure’
Barrot posted on X, “Our consul was able to meet with the six French nationals arrested by the Israeli authorities last night. Their relatives have been contacted. One of them has agreed to voluntary departure and is expected to return today. The other five will be subject to a forced expulsion process.”
Israel redirected aid ship to Ashdod port
The Israeli authorities intercepted the Madleen, the ship having humanitarian aid for Gaza, with the six French activists on board. The authorities intercepted the ship in international waters and redirected it to Ashdod port.
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg also detained
The authorities detained 12 international volunteers, including Swedish climate activist, Greta Thunberg. According to organisers, the ship was intercepted, when the group was going to deliver much-needed aid to Gaza.
After their detention, the Israeli defence forces have confirmed their detention and conducted a medical checkup of the detainees.
Freedom Flotilla Coalition organised the mission
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), which organised the mission, alleged that the Israeli military “attacked” and “unlawfully boarded” the ship in international waters while it was attempting to deliver baby formula, food, and medical supplies to Gaza which remains under an 11-week aid blockade.
The activists were detained after Israeli quadcopters reportedly sprayed the ship with a white paint-like substance, jammed communications, and played disturbing noises over the radio. In a livestream from the ship, activist Yasemin Acar showed the white substance on the deck, stating it was affecting her eyes. Later, in a pre-recorded video posted by FFC, Thunberg said, “If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces, or forces that support Israel.”
