Responding to the news that Israel has intercepted and detained the 12-person crew aboard the Gaza Freedom Flotilla’s Madleen boat, including activist

Blockades may be used in wartime, but only if they meet 5 legal conditions. Have Israel’s actions complied with the law?

Israel’s interception of the Madleen is not without precedent. On May 2, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition ship Conscience was seriously damaged during a drone attack while carrying humanitarian aid bound for Gaza. The attack ended its journey.

Indonesia has strongly condemned Israel's interception of the Madleen, a British-flagged humanitarian vessel bound for Gaza, calling the action a clear violation of international law and denouncing Israel’s blockade as collective punishment that risks causing mass starvation.

Swedish climate and human rights activist Greta Thunberg departed Israel on a flight to France after being detained by Israeli forces aboard an aid ship bound for Gaza.

The Defense Ministry announced that the flotilla was making its way to Israeli shores and that all passengers were expected to return to their home countries.