Gaza City, Gaza Strip — Israel has declared its intention to prevent an aid ship carrying climate activist Greta Thunberg and others from reaching Gaza. The UK-registered vessel, named the “Madleen,” is currently moving through the Mediterranean Sea, approaching Gaza’s coast amid tensions surrounding Israel’s blockade of the enclave.

Thunberg, part of a coalition aiming to break the maritime blockade, acknowledged the inherent risks of their mission, referencing past attempts that have met with violence. She emphasized that despite their dangerous endeavor, the daily struggles faced by Palestinians far outweigh their own risks. Her comments come as the ship nears its destination, with organizers hopeful for a successful landing.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated unequivocally that the “Madleen” would not be allowed to reach Gaza, urging the vessel to retreat. In his assertion, Katz instructed the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to take measures to ensure the ship could not continue its journey to the besieged area.

As the Madleen aims to dock in Gaza within days, organizers are committed to continuing their course. Yasemin Acar, a spokesperson for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, confirmed that they are pressing forward, determined to deliver their message of solidarity and humanitarian support.

The coalition, which opposes the Israeli blockade, has a history of attempting similar missions. Their continued advocacy reflects broader concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. After an extended blockade that limited aid access, restrictions have recently been eased, though the volume of humanitarian supplies reaching the region remains critically low.

Francesca Albanese, a United Nations expert on Palestinian territories, highlighted the symbolic significance of the flotilla, saying it carries not just aid, but a message of humanity. The presence of public figures like Thunberg and European Parliament member Rima Hassan amplifies their mission’s visibility.

The crew of the vessel has proactively shared their location through an online tracker, preparing for potential interception by Israeli military forces. Statements from the advocacy group aboard the Madleen assert that from both legal and ethical standpoints, it is unjust for Israel to restrict their passage, emphasizing the rights of Gazans to determine who can enter their territory.

Tensions have escalated in the region, as evidenced by a previous incident where another ship from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition was reportedly attacked by what its organizers claimed was an Israeli drone. The authenticity of these claims remains unverified, as the military declined to comment on the confrontation.

The unfolding situation has drawn international attention, reflecting ongoing debates over humanitarian access in conflict zones and the lengths to which activists will go to highlight their cause. The outcome of the Madleen’s journey is yet to be seen, but its mission underscores the persistent struggles faced by those advocating for Palestinian rights amid the enduring siege of Gaza.