IDF Preparing to Intercept Gaza-Bound Flotilla; Report: Israeli Drones Circling Vessel

Israel is preparing to intercept a ship currently en route to Gaza, which is now approximately 250 nautical miles from its destination. According to Israeli reports, the IDF plans to stop the vessel in international waters, well before it reaches the Gaza coastline. Members of the group onboard claim that an Israeli drone is currently circling above the ship, named "Madleen."

The Madleen, carrying 12 pro-Palestinian activists including Swedish climate activist and Hamas supporter Greta Thunberg, is expected to reach Gaza’s shores either tomorrow or the day after. However, Israeli officials say it will likely be intercepted beforehand, potentially even today.

The IDF and Israeli defense establishment are reportedly preparing to halt the ship as part of what’s known as the “Freedom Flotilla,” which organizers say is aimed at breaking the Israeli naval blockade on Gaza.

The flotilla departed last week from Catania, Sicily, and has raised concerns in Israel due to fears that any confrontation will be broadcast live to a global audience.

Of particular concern is the presence of French Member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan on board, who carries diplomatic immunity. Israeli officials stress: “Any attempt to breach the naval blockade will be stopped.” Still, according to Channel 12, political sources warn that a high-profile confrontation with the ship, which is widely perceived as a humanitarian mission, could cause diplomatic fallout similar to the 2010 Mavi Marmara incident.

Given the circumstances, IDF naval commandos from Shayetet 13 are expected to be deployed if necessary to board the ship. As of now, the Madleen is 250 nautical miles (approximately 460 kilometers) from Gaza’s coast. There are indications the crew may slow their progress to ensure they arrive during daylight hours, in hopes of maximizing media exposure.

Greta Thunberg, who in recent years shifted her focus from climate activism to pro-Palestinian advocacy, has posted videos and photos on social media showing her aboard the ship heading toward Gaza.

The presence of Rima Hassan increases the sensitivity of the situation, as any detention or harm to her could trigger a major diplomatic crisis, particularly with France, whose relations with Israel have recently become strained.

France, whose citizens make up a significant portion of the activists aboard, has said it will provide full support to those on the vessel, without specifying further.

The ship is reportedly registered in the United Kingdom, a country considered a close ally of Israel. However, the Palestinian Authority flag is flying on the ship, and Israeli officials say they requested British intervention to stop the flotilla, but were denied. Israel continues to insist that all humanitarian aid to Gaza must pass through the port of Ashdod in accordance with existing security and legal protocols.

Activists aboard the vessel, many of whom are Hamas supporters, have stated they will livestream any Israeli interception. They also claim that in recent hours, drones, presumably Israeli, have been circling above them.