PARIS — Hours after her deportation from Israel, climate activist Greta Thunberg publicly accused Israeli authorities of forcibly removing her and fellow activists from a humanitarian mission in international waters. Speaking at Charles de Gaulle Airport, Thunberg, 22, insisted that she did not break any laws during the voyage aimed at delivering urgently needed aid to Gaza.

Thunberg and a team of volunteers had been aboard the UK-flagged Madleen when Israeli forces intercepted the vessel approximately 125 miles off Gaza’s coast. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, which organized the journey, reported that the ship was diverted to Ashdod, where its crew members faced police custody. While some were pending deportation hearings, others remained in detention.

The mission grew increasingly pressing as Gaza has endured a debilitating siege that has left millions teetering on the brink of famine. As humanitarian concerns mount, Thunberg emphasized its significance: “We were 12 peaceful volunteers sailing on a civilian ship carrying humanitarian aid on international waters,” she remarked. “We did nothing wrong.”

The interception has drawn sharp criticism. Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard stated that the act clearly contravenes international law, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of the unarmed activists. Thunberg noted that, despite her own concerns for her fellow crew members, the circumstances she faced paled in comparison to the suffering experienced by people in Gaza.

During her address, Thunberg expressed her unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid, declaring, “I was very clear in my testimony that we were kidnapped on international waters and brought against our will into Israel.” This statement reflects broader allegations of human rights violations frequently leveled against Israeli officials amid the ongoing blockade.

Fellow crew member Sergio Toribio echoed Thunberg’s sentiments, describing the interception as a “pirate attack” that disregards their rights. He commented on the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the illegitimacy of the mission’s disruption.

As the situation escalates, concerns surrounding the security and well-being of civilians in Gaza continue to be paramount. Reports indicate that civilians have lost their lives while attempting to secure food from limited resources — many of which are heavily guarded and severely restricted.

Thunberg highlighted that the purpose of their voyage was not only to deliver supplies but also to raise awareness about the dire realities faced by Gaza. “We cannot accept just witnessing all this and doing nothing,” she stated, insisting that the world must acknowledge the suffering of over two million people living under siege.

In the aftermath of her deportation, the activist found herself facing questions about her future actions and the political climate surrounding her advocacy. Responding to remarks from former President Trump, who referred to her as “angry,” Thunberg advocated for the importance of youth activism, suggesting, “The world needs many more young angry women.”

As the situation in Gaza continues to draw international attention, Thunberg’s actions have sparked a renewed conversation about humanitarian efforts and the power of individual voices in advocating for change.