“Swedish Citizen Thunberg Released While Delivering Humanitarian Aid to Gaza,” Says Israeli Government

“Swedish Citizen Thunberg Released While Delivering Humanitarian Aid to Gaza,” Says Israeli Government

Israel's Foreign Ministry has announced that Thunberg, a Swedish national detained while delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, has been released. She has departed on a flight to France and will travel onward to her home country, Sweden. The ministry also published a photo of her seated aboard the aircraft.

Ship Seizure:
The vessel “Marianne”, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was carrying aid to Gaza when it was intercepted by the Israeli navy approximately 200 kilometers off the coast of Gaza. While the coalition and human rights groups have called the seizure a violation of international law, Israel has rejected those accusations.

Status of Other Activists:
Thunberg was among three activists and one journalist who have been deported. Eight other passengers refused deportation and are being detained pending a court hearing. Adalah, an Israeli legal rights group representing the activists, said the eight will be brought before a court later on Tuesday.

Questions of International Law:
Human rights organizations argue that Israel’s actions constitute violations of international law. Amnesty International has called for the immediate and unconditional release of the detainees. Israel, however, claims its actions are consistent with international legal standards.

Gaza Blockade:
Israel and Egypt have maintained a blockade on Gaza since 2007. Israel argues that the blockade is necessary to prevent Hamas from importing weapons. Critics say the blockade amounts to collective punishment of the Palestinian population in Gaza. During the ongoing war, Israel has further restricted humanitarian aid, which experts warn could lead to famine.

Wartime Context:
On October 7, Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. In response, Israeli military operations have killed over 54,000 Palestinians, and more than 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced.