PRESS RELEASE FROM FRANCE INSOUMISE
Interception of the Freedom Flotilla ship by Israel: illegal arrest of 12 humanitarian workers and peace activists, including French MEP Rima Hassan and Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.
June 9, 2025
We express our deepest outrage following the interception, last night, by Israeli authorities, of the Freedom Flotilla ship, which was carrying humanitarian aid intended for the civilian population of Gaza, subjected to a total blockade since March 2, 2025.
On board the ship were 12 humanitarian workers and peace activists, engaged in a strictly civilian and non-violent mission. Among them were French MEP Rima Hassan and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, figures recognized for their commitment to human rights and international justice.
This interception, carried out outside Israeli territorial waters, constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, particularly maritime law and humanitarian law. The arrest of the crew members and the seizure of aid intended for a population in immediate humanitarian distress are unacceptable.
We call on states, the European Union, the United Nations, and the entire international community to:
▪️Strongly condemn this illegal arrest
▪️Demand the immediate and unconditional release of all crew members;
▪️Pressure the Israeli authorities to allow humanitarian aid to reach Gaza without hindrance, in accordance with international law
It is the duty of all nations committed to human rights not to remain silent in the face of these flagrant violations of international law committed by Israel.
Solidarity is not a crime. Free the Freedom Flotilla crew!
We salute those holding a vigil at Place de la République tonight. This Monday, June 9, join us across France for mobilizations in support of the Freedom Flotilla and for an end to the genocide in Gaza. In Paris, 6 PM at Place de la République.