Who Is Greta Thunberg?
Greta Thunberg Gaza aid ship mission draws global attention as the 22-year-old Swedish activist faces Israeli detention. After starting the Fridays for Future climate movement in 2018, she became well-known around the world.
She started demonstrating outside the Swedish parliament at the age of 15 to pressure decision-makers to take action on climate change. She has since addressed world leaders at the UN, testified before U.S. Congress, and starred in climate documentaries such as I Am Greta and Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change the World.
Why Was Greta Thunberg on a Ship to Gaza?
On June 1, 2025, Thunberg boarded the Madleen, a British-flagged charity ship operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC). The ship attempted to deliver food and medical supplies to the Gaza Strip as part of humanitarian aid operations despite Israel’s ongoing embargo.
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The mission responded to Gaza’s growing humanitarian needs, worsened by conflict, displacement, and severe shortages. French lawmaker Rima Hassan was also among the 12 activists aboard.
While en route, the crew also rescued four migrants drifting between Libya and Greece.
What transpired during the mission?
On June 9, the Israeli navy halted and boarded the Madleen, citing the necessity of upholding the maritime embargo around Gaza. The incident, which happened in international waters, was quickly condemned by people all around the world.
Thunberg referred to the boarding as a “kidnapping” in a previous video and begged the Swedish government to secure their release.
“I urge all my friends, family, and comrades to put pressure on the Swedish government to release me and the others as soon as possible,” she stated.
Gaza Blockade and Past Attempts
This mission follows a failed April attempt by another FFC ship that was hit by a drone attack. Israeli authorities maintain the blockade for what they call national security purposes, though critics argue it worsens humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
A nonprofit organization called the Freedom Flotilla Coalition has long opposed the blockade by trying to transport help by water.
Greta’s Activism in Film
Greta Thunberg has also been the focus of two acclaimed documentaries:
- “I Am Greta” (2020) — A personal look at her rise from solo school strikes to global activism.
- “Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change the World” — A PBS docu series chronicling her travels and climate advocacy.
Source: USA Today
