List of participants and current location of the Madleen Gaza flotilla revealed.
The humanitarian ship Madleen, organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), embarked on its journey from Catania, Sicily, on June 1, 2025. The vessel, carrying essential aid, is expected to reach Gaza on June 7, 2025, with a crew comprising dedicated human rights activists, including renowned climate activist Greta Thunberg. Their mission is to provide relief amidst ongoing challenges faced by the Palestinian enclave, particularly due to restricted access to essential supplies.
The FFC’s initiative comes in response to the critical situation in Gaza, exacerbated by a blockade that has placed immense strain on the 2.3 million inhabitants, with over 90% currently experiencing acute food shortages. Aid organizations report dire conditions, especially affecting vulnerable populations such as children, who have succumbed to malnutrition in alarming numbers.
Named after Gaza’s first fisherwoman, the Madleen’s journey spans approximately 2,000 kilometers (1,250 miles) and is being closely monitored via the ship’s onboard tracking system. The latest update indicated that the vessel was making steady progress and was about 600 kilometers (375 miles) from Sicily as of June 3, at 15:00 GMT.
The onboard team of 12 activists represents diverse global perspectives, advocating for humanitarian support. The crew includes Rima Hassan, a French-Palestinian Member of the European Parliament, and a group of dedicated volunteers from various countries, each committed to nonviolent civil resistance. They embody a shared ethos of raising awareness and fostering solidarity with the people of Gaza during these challenging times.
Previous attempts to deliver aid to Gaza have been met with significant challenges. In May 2025, another vessel, Conscience, was attacked by drones in international waters while on a similar mission. Such incidents highlight the risks faced by those advocating for humanitarian assistance and the complexities surrounding aid distribution in conflict zones.
The Madleen is loaded with vital supplies, including medical equipment, food essentials, and personal care items, addressing urgent needs in Gaza. Despite the establishment of organizations like the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, recent efforts to facilitate aid distribution have faced immense difficulties, underscoring the desperate situation and the need for continued international attention and support for the Palestinian people.
Gaza’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by those in conflict zones, highlighting the importance of solidarity and humanitarian efforts. Through their journey, the crew of Madleen seeks not only to deliver aid but also to inspire global awareness about the necessity of sustained support for vulnerable populations.
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