The “Madleen,” a ship sailing to the Gaza Strip as part of an international flotilla to break the blockade, issued a distress signal Tuesday night after a drone was seen flying overhead. Climate activist Greta Thunberg is among those who joined the flotilla to deliver humanitarian aid.
The incident occurred roughly 68 kilometers outside Greece’s territorial waters.
Activists on board appeal for international protection
Activists on board, including actor Liam Cunningham of Game of Thrones, called on the international community to ensure their safety.
"We have to do everything we can to demand an end to these atrocities and war crimes committed by Israel," says @gretathunberg.
The Swedish climate activist speaks to @democracynow from the Mediterranean Sea, aboard the Madleen, as she and other activists sail to Gaza to deliver… pic.twitter.com/a4PXQQDkmy
— Democracy Now! (@democracynow) June 4, 2025
Greek drone identified after distress call
Authorities later confirmed that the drone was a Heron model operated by the Greek Coast Guard. The aircraft left the area shortly after it was identified. Officials stated that the distress call was unnecessary.
The ship carries essential aid supplies for Gaza
The Madleen departed from Sicily on Sunday. It is carrying a range of humanitarian items, including baby formula, diapers, flour, rice, hygiene products, water filters, and medical equipment. Organizers say the mission is entirely peaceful and focused on providing aid to the people of Gaza.
#FreedomFlotilla #BreakTheSiege #AllEyesOnDeck pic.twitter.com/n5yHQ2xdOj
— Freedom Flotilla Coalition (@GazaFFlotilla) June 3, 2025
The organizers said that the Gaza flotilla is a non-violent civilian effort. They added, “Together, we can open a maritime corridor for the people of Gaza.”
The previous attempt failed near Malta in May
This voyage marks the coalition’s second attempt to reach Gaza by sea in recent months. In May, the group’s ship Conscience suffered heavy damage while sailing in international waters near Malta. The organization blamed Israel for the incident, though Israeli officials neither confirmed nor denied involvement.
BREAKING: After The Conscience was attacked by drones in international waters, Malta agreed to cover repairs but insists they happen at sea. This is unsafe!
We demand the ship be brought to port, fully repaired, and allowed to sail to Gaza.
This mission is about breaking the… pic.twitter.com/QpfXTrIo9c— Medea Benjamin (@medeabenjamin) May 4, 2025
Israeli military monitoring flotilla’s approach
The Israeli military is now preparing for the arrival of the Madleen. At a press conference, Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson and Brigadier General, Effie Defrin, said the military is ready to operate in all areas, including at sea.
“We will act accordingly,” he said.
Ongoing blockade remains a source of debate
The blockade of the Gaza Strip has long been a point of contention. While Israel says it is necessary for security, critics argue that it restricts the flow of essential goods and aid to civilians.
Organizers of the flotilla say their mission is a direct response to those restrictions. They argue that international attention and pressure are needed to ensure safe passage and uphold humanitarian principles.
As the Madleen continues its course, all eyes remain on the region to see how the situation unfolds.
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