Israel Deports Greta Thunberg and 170 Activists After Gaza Flotilla Interception

Israeli authorities have deported 171 activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, after intercepting a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. The deportees, citizens of various countries including Greece, Italy, France, and the United States, were sent to Greece and Slovakia.

Thunberg arrived in Athens, Greece, where supporters gathered at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, chanting pro-Palestinian slogans. Addressing the crowd, Thunberg criticized the necessity of the mission and highlighted alleged mistreatment during detention. She urged global action against what she described as the "genocide" in Gaza.

Israeli authorities have denied allegations of mistreatment, asserting that detainees' rights were respected. The Foreign Ministry accused the activists of participating in a "PR stunt" and dismissed their claims as part of a "pre-planned fake news campaign."

Approximately 150 activists remain in Israel's Ktziot prison, including Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela. Reports indicate that 40 detainees are on hunger strike, with some refusing food and water until medical treatment is provided to all detainees.

The flotilla aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge Israel's blockade of the territory. The interception has sparked international demonstrations and raised concerns about the treatment of activists and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.