Greta Thunberg has addressed criticism regarding her participation in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which aims to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Thunberg stated that no one would risk their safety for mere publicity, despite Israeli authorities referring to the flotilla and similar efforts as “selfie yachts.”
Currently aboard one of the 52 boats in the flotilla, Thunberg emphasized that the mission extends beyond humanitarian purposes; it also seeks to convey a message of solidarity to the people of Gaza, highlighting the responsibility of individuals when governments fail to act.
International aid organizations have been attempting to provide food and medicine to Gaza, but encounter restrictions imposed by Israel, which argues that these supplies might be diverted to Hamas. A UN-backed agency has recently reported famine conditions in Gaza, attributing this crisis to what the UN humanitarian chief describes as Israel’s systematic obstruction of aid, a claim that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed as false.
Thunberg stated the flotilla’s goal is to challenge what she describes as Israel’s illegal blockade of Gaza by sea. The Israeli military maintains control over the waters adjacent to Gaza, complicating access for humanitarian efforts.
The flotilla has faced challenges, including recent drone attacks targeting the boats, which prompted Spain and Italy to respond with naval support. Thunberg has accused Israeli officials of issuing unfounded threats that violate international law and questioned the rationale for attacking a peaceful mission aimed at providing aid.
While Israel has not officially commented on the drone incidents, it has previously asserted its intent to prevent the flotilla from reaching Gaza. In June, Thunberg and several activists were detained by Israeli authorities after attempting to intercept another boat bound for Gaza, leading to her deportation from Tel Aviv after one day of detention. She claimed that Israel’s actions constituted an unlawful abduction in international waters, while Israel maintained that it was enforcing its maritime blockade.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx25grpxzd3o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss