Israeli Plans to Intercept 'Madeline' as it Approaches Gaza Coast
Israeli security sources indicate intentions to peacefully seize the ship 'Madeline' and deport activists amid ongoing humanitarian mission.
Israeli security officials have reported that the Israeli military intends to peacefully intercept the ship 'Madeline,' which is currently nearing the coast of Gaza, towing it to a port in Ashdod.
The authorities plan to detain the activists on board and deport them the same night.
Senior officials expressed concerns that allowing one convoy to enter would lead to more attempts to breach the maritime blockade imposed on the Palestinian territory since 2007.
The voyage, which has been underway for eight days, aims to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza by sending a vessel with symbolic aid and a crew of activists, including doctors, engineers, and human rights advocates.
Organizers have stated that the mission seeks to break the maritime blockade and deliver assistance to the besieged area.
Recent navigation data indicates that 'Madeline' is less than 200 nautical miles from Palestinian territorial waters, with expected arrival tomorrow.
Activists aboard the vessel reported that drone activity has been continuously observed in the vicinity.
The International Committee to Break the Siege on Gaza has stated that 'Madeline' is facing serious Israeli interference, claiming that Israeli forces are disrupting the ship’s location and communications.
A French doctor on board confirmed ongoing drone surveillance over the vessel.
In a public message, the activists reiterated their commitment to continue sailing despite threats, conveying a message of solidarity to people in Gaza, asserting that they are not alone.
The committee urged supporters to track the ship's journey and share its location widely to ensure the safety of the passengers.
The ship, carrying one ton of medical supplies, is seen as a modest contribution amid calls to end the blockade affecting Gaza.
Greta Thunberg, a Swedish activist aboard 'Madeline,' has expressed hopes to reach Gaza within the next two days, emphasizing the need for immediate ceasefire and humanitarian corridors for Gaza.
Israeli defense officials have communicated expectations that the military will prevent the Freedom Fleet vessel from entering what they term 'Israeli waters.' Media reports indicate that the Israeli Navy has conducted exercises off the Ashdod coast on methods to seize 'Madeline.' Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant has mandated the military not to allow the ship to reach Gaza, stating that its blockade is essential to prevent arms from reaching Hamas.
In response to these threats, a crew member from 'Madeline' described the trip as peaceful and intended to show solidarity with the residents of Gaza.
'Madeline' is the 36th ship within the Freedom Fleet, established to challenge the Israeli blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007. The ship is named after Madeleine Koub, the first female Palestinian fisherman, who lost her father and livelihood due to the ongoing conflict since the onset of the Israeli war in October 2023.
The authorities plan to detain the activists on board and deport them the same night.
Senior officials expressed concerns that allowing one convoy to enter would lead to more attempts to breach the maritime blockade imposed on the Palestinian territory since 2007.
The voyage, which has been underway for eight days, aims to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza by sending a vessel with symbolic aid and a crew of activists, including doctors, engineers, and human rights advocates.
Organizers have stated that the mission seeks to break the maritime blockade and deliver assistance to the besieged area.
Recent navigation data indicates that 'Madeline' is less than 200 nautical miles from Palestinian territorial waters, with expected arrival tomorrow.
Activists aboard the vessel reported that drone activity has been continuously observed in the vicinity.
The International Committee to Break the Siege on Gaza has stated that 'Madeline' is facing serious Israeli interference, claiming that Israeli forces are disrupting the ship’s location and communications.
A French doctor on board confirmed ongoing drone surveillance over the vessel.
In a public message, the activists reiterated their commitment to continue sailing despite threats, conveying a message of solidarity to people in Gaza, asserting that they are not alone.
The committee urged supporters to track the ship's journey and share its location widely to ensure the safety of the passengers.
The ship, carrying one ton of medical supplies, is seen as a modest contribution amid calls to end the blockade affecting Gaza.
Greta Thunberg, a Swedish activist aboard 'Madeline,' has expressed hopes to reach Gaza within the next two days, emphasizing the need for immediate ceasefire and humanitarian corridors for Gaza.
Israeli defense officials have communicated expectations that the military will prevent the Freedom Fleet vessel from entering what they term 'Israeli waters.' Media reports indicate that the Israeli Navy has conducted exercises off the Ashdod coast on methods to seize 'Madeline.' Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant has mandated the military not to allow the ship to reach Gaza, stating that its blockade is essential to prevent arms from reaching Hamas.
In response to these threats, a crew member from 'Madeline' described the trip as peaceful and intended to show solidarity with the residents of Gaza.
'Madeline' is the 36th ship within the Freedom Fleet, established to challenge the Israeli blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007. The ship is named after Madeleine Koub, the first female Palestinian fisherman, who lost her father and livelihood due to the ongoing conflict since the onset of the Israeli war in October 2023.