Context:

Israel deported environmental activist Greta Thunberg and three others who attempted to deliver aid to Gaza via the vessel Madleen, intercepted by Israeli forces. The activists, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, claimed they were illegally detained in international waters and described their mission as a humanitarian effort to bring essential supplies and show solidarity with Gaza. Israel dismissed the attempt as a publicity stunt, citing its naval blockade intended to prevent weapon smuggling into the region. Eight other passengers from the vessel refused to sign deportation papers, resulting in detentions pending tribunal decisions. Thunberg, known for opposing Israel's blockade, emphasized the importance of continuous efforts to support Gaza despite challenges, while Israel maintained that aid should be delivered through established land crossings without breaching the blockade.

Dive Deeper:

• Greta Thunberg and three other activists were deported by Israel after being detained on a vessel attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. The boat, intercepted in international waters, was part of a mission by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition to breach Israel's naval blockade.

• The activists, including a French member of the European Parliament, were reportedly taken against their will to Israel. They claimed their mission was to deliver essential supplies like food and medical aid amidst widespread hunger in Gaza and to express solidarity with the Palestinians.

• Israel's Foreign Ministry labeled the mission a public relations stunt and stated that any aid should be delivered through land crossings without violating the blockade, which they argue is necessary to prevent weapons smuggling by Hamas.

• Eight passengers from the Madleen refused to sign deportation documents, resulting in their detention and a pending decision from an Israeli immigration tribunal. Lawyers representing the activists argued that their detention was unlawful as they were captured in international waters.

• Greta Thunberg, who has criticized Israel's blockade and conduct in Gaza, was flown to France and then to Sweden. She emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to aid Gaza despite Israel's stance, while Israel maintained that the blockade enforcement was in accordance with international law.

• The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, leading the campaign against the blockade, encouraged high-profile activists like Thunberg to leave quickly to share their experiences and challenge Israeli narratives. Upon her arrival in Paris, Thunberg reiterated the mission's aim to deliver aid and hope to Gaza.

• Israel's military claimed their actions were legal and within a designated blockade-enforcement zone. They stated that flotilla members refused offers to offload their cargo for legal passage to Gaza, emphasizing the blockade's role in national security.