In a swift overnight operation, Shayetet 13, the Israeli Navy’s elite commando unit, seized control of the vessel “Madeleine”—a yacht carrying 12 pro-Palestinian activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg—as it attempted to breach Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza.
The ship was intercepted in international waters and boarded without resistance or casualties, according to the IDF. All activists aboard surrendered peacefully.
Preceded by Tensions and Warnings
Roughly two hours before the operation, activists on board reported spotting Israeli Navy vessels “circling” the ship. Alarms were heard, and social media posts described drones dispersing a white powder over the deck, though these claims remain unverified. Despite the tension, the takeover was conducted quietly and with professionalism, per Israeli officials.
The “selfie yacht” of the “celebrities” is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries.
While Greta and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity — and which included… pic.twitter.com/eEZSJJHVfd
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025
Final Warning Before Boarding
Prior to boarding, an Israeli naval officer issued a clear warning via loudspeaker in English: “You are entering an area under military blockade. If you wish to deliver humanitarian aid, you must do so via the Port of Ashdod using official channels.”
Shortly after the warning, the vessel’s communication feed was cut, and activists stopped broadcasting to Arabic news outlets. Some of the activists had pre-recorded videos that were later released online, saying: “If this video is being published, I’ve been kidnapped in international waters. Pressure authorities to release me.”
The Israeli Navy is currently communicating with the “selfie yacht”. Using an international civilian communication system, the Israeli Navy has instructed the “selfie yacht” to change its course due to its approach toward a restricted area. pic.twitter.com/KnSqWrsXU2
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 8, 2025
All the passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over. pic.twitter.com/tLZZYcspJO
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 9, 2025
“Small Cargo, Loud Noise” Says Foreign Ministry
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed the voyage as a “media stunt,” noting the ship carried only a fraction of what a standard aid truck would contain. “This was a selfie yacht masquerading as humanitarian aid,” the ministry said in a statement. “The vessel is being safely redirected to Israeli shores, and the activists will be repatriated to their countries of origin.”
