The Media Line: Gaza-bound Activist Ship Reaches Egyptian Coast 

Gaza-bound Activist Ship Reaches Egyptian Coast 

By The Media Line Staff 

A boat carrying 12 international activists, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, has reached the Egyptian coast as it attempts to deliver aid to Gaza and challenge Israel’s long-standing naval blockade. The vessel, Madleen, is now sailing in Egyptian waters, organizers said Friday. 

Departing last Sunday from the Sicilian port of Catania, the Madleen is carrying relief supplies and a crew determined to draw global attention to what they describe as a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. It is operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. 

“We are doing this because, no matter what odds we are against, we have to keep trying,” Thunberg said in an emotional speech before departure. “Because the moment we stop trying is when we lose our humanity.” 

European Parliament member Rima Hassan, who is also on board, urged governments to “guarantee safe passage for the Freedom Flotilla.” Hassan, who is of Palestinian descent, has previously been barred from entering Israel over her criticism of the war in Gaza. 

A previous flotilla ship, Conscience, was reportedly hit by drone strikes in May during a similar attempt. 

The Israeli blockade remains a key obstacle to the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. While Israel eased restrictions slightly in May, UN agencies warn that over 2 million Palestinians face severe food insecurity and risk of famine. Aid groups cite Israeli limits, lawlessness inside Gaza, and looting as major barriers to effective distribution. 

Earlier in its voyage, the Madleen diverted course to rescue four Sudanese migrants near Crete.