Greta Thunberg and Swedish Activists Arrive in Athens After Detention
Greta Thunberg and eight Swedish activists reached Athens after Israeli detention. They were part of a flotilla attempting to reach Gaza. Thunberg condemned the blockade and described poor conditions during their captivity.
Greta Thunberg and eight other Swedish activists landed in Athens on Monday evening. They were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla detained by Israel last week.
The group of 470 activists attempted to reach Gaza when Israeli authorities intercepted them. Israel held all nine Swedes in detention for several days.
Thunberg spoke to reporters at the Athens airport. She called the mission's necessity a shame. The activist described deliberate starvation of millions under what she termed an illegal siege.
According to The Guardian, Thunberg reported poor conditions during detention. She told Swedish officials about food and water shortages.
The Swedish branch of Global Movement to Gaza confirmed all nine citizens arrived safely. They will now undergo health checks at a secure location.
Thunberg expressed disbelief at the treatment of Palestinians. She questioned how people could be so cruel to those living under decades-long blockade.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions around Gaza aid missions. It also shows how international activists continue challenging the Israeli blockade despite risks.
What consequences might this detention have for future activist missions? The Swedish government has not yet commented publicly on the activists' treatment.