Greta Thunberg Gaza Aid Mission: French Doctor Alleges Mistreatment by Israeli Forces

Greta Thunberg Gaza Aid Mission: Doctor Alleges Mistreatment

A French doctor, part of a humanitarian mission heading to Gaza, has accused Israeli forces of mistreating passengers, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, after their vessel was intercepted at sea.

Allegations of Mistreatment

Dr. Baptiste André, a member of the Madleen crew, stated that the passengers were subjected to mockery, sleep deprivation, and limited access to food and water while in Israeli custody. He described these actions as "acts of mistreatment."

The Intercepted Mission

The Madleen, organized by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, departed from Italy with the intention of delivering humanitarian supplies to Gaza, which is currently facing a worsening blockade. The vessel was intercepted by Israeli naval forces approximately 200 kilometers from the Gaza coast.

Deportations and Detentions

Four passengers, including Thunberg, signed deportation documents and were sent back home. However, eight others remain in Israeli custody, awaiting a court hearing.

Thunberg's Response

Upon arriving in Paris, Thunberg condemned Israel's actions, accusing them of forcibly detaining the activists in international waters and committing further rights violations.

Israel's Perspective

The Israeli government has dismissed the voyage as a publicity stunt, labeling the vessel a “selfie yacht” and accusing it of breaching its naval blockade on Gaza.

The Blockade Protest

Thunberg maintains that the voyage was a peaceful protest against Israel’s blockade, which she believes is worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.