Israeli authorities deported Greta Thunberg along with 170 other activists involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla, which tried to break Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza. The deportees came from 16 European countries including Sweden, France, Greece, Italy, the UK, and the US. Thunberg and about 160 activists were flown to Athens, Greece, with others sent to Slovakia. Approximately 138 activists remain in Israeli detention, with some reportedly on hunger strikes.[1][2][4][6]
Details on Detention Conditions
Thunberg and fellow detainees alleged mistreatment during custody. Reports claim she was kicked, forced to kiss an Israeli flag, and subjected to harsh detention conditions including limited food and water, overcrowded cells, and lack of medical supplies. Thunberg described herself as dehydrated and weak with skin rashes. Other detainees reported physical and mental abuse such as being blindfolded, bound, and insulted. Israeli officials denied these allegations, calling them false and maintaining detainees’ rights were respected. Notably, official court records indicated Thunberg made no formal complaints and declined expedited deportation to remain with fellow detainees.[3][5][10][1]
Humanitarian and Political Context
The flotilla’s mission was to challenge what it called an “illegal and inhumane” Israeli blockade of Gaza, where the UN has reported famine conditions affecting hundreds of thousands. Israel asserts the blockade is a legal security measure to prevent arms smuggling to Hamas and regards the flotilla as a “publicity stunt” carrying minimal aid. The blockade has tightened especially since recent escalations and remains in place for nearly two decades.[4][9][1]
International Reactions and Ongoing Crisis
Upon arrival in Athens, Thunberg spoke about global solidarity and condemned the continued suffering in Gaza, urging action against what she called complicity in “genocide” against Palestinians. Supporters warmly welcomed the activists at the airport. Meanwhile, reports of hunger strikes and continued detention of activists in Israel persist. Additional flotillas are planned to continue humanitarian efforts and challenge the blockade, keeping international focus on the Gaza crisis.[2][1][4]
