Protests Erupt Across Europe Over Israeli Seizure of Gaza Aid Flotilla

A humanitarian aid flotilla named "Madleen," carrying 12 activists including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters while heading to Gaza. The Israeli military boarded the vessel, redirected it to the port of Ashdod, and detained the activists, who are expected to be deported; Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the detainees to watch footage of the Hamas October 7 attacks, a move widely condemned by human rights groups. The seizure sparked widespread protests across Europe, including large demonstrations in London, Berlin, and other cities, with protesters condemning Israel's blockade on Gaza and calling for the release of the activists. Various governments, including France and Germany, have sought consular access to their citizens detained aboard the ship, while international organizations and rights groups denounced the interception as a violation of international law and state terrorism. The incident has also fueled internal dissent within Israel and calls from international figures to pressure Israel and end its blockade on Gaza. This event follows previous confrontations, such as the bombing of a prior aid vessel, underscoring ongoing tensions around Israel's maritime blockade of Gaza.