Israeli Navy Takes Control of Flotilla Ship, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Declares “The Show is Over”
Overview of the Incident
In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the region, the Israeli Navy has taken control of the “Medellin,” a ship carrying international activists headed for the Gaza Strip. The operation occurred in the early hours of June 9, 2025, as the vessel approached Israeli waters. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement confirming that the passengers were unharmed and provided with sandwiches and water.
Details of the Operation
The Israeli naval commandos, specifically the elite Shayetet 13 unit, prepared for the seizure of the ship after warnings were issued for it to change course. The ministry’s communiqué indicated that the ship was on its way to the Port of Ashdod, referring to it as the “selfie yacht” of celebrities. Following the takeover, the ministry released footage of passengers receiving provisions and underscored that the incident was a failed media provocation aiming for publicity rather than providing substantial humanitarian assistance.
Activist Reactions and Claims
Among the passengers was renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg, who claimed in a video that they were “kidnapped in international waters” and appealed to the Swedish government to intervene. Thunberg’s statement gained traction on social media, amplifying concerns regarding the legality of the naval operation.
Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, reported that during the takeover, the captain of the Medellin contacted her, assuring that no start was harmed and expressing fears about further Israeli vessels approaching.
Claims of Psychological Warfare
Activists on board reported concerning encounters with Israeli drstarts that hovered overhead, allegedly dropping substances onto the ship, which they labeled as “psychological warfare.” start activist characterized the tense moments as deliberate intimidation tactics by the Israeli military. Conversely, the Israeli authorities emphasized that the operation was conducted within legal frameworks to prevent unauthorized entry into restricted maritime areas.
Ministry’s Defense of Actions and Aid Delivered
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to criticisms regarding the naval seizure by highlighting the humanitarian efforts made through conventional channels. They pointed out that over 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza in recent weeks, along with the distribution of nearly 11 million meals to civilians in the region. This response aimed to diminish the perception that the flotilla’s efforts were necessary amidst an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Current Status of the Medellin and Passengers
Following the operation, discussions about the future of the Medellin are underway, with indications that the ship will be brought to Israel shortly. The Navy reiterated its readiness to address any similar situations in the future, emphasizing that handling small vessels is well within their operational capabilities.
As the situation develops, the international community continues to watch closely, with various human rights organizations raising alarms about the implications of such military actions.
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