Israel Deports Greta Thunberg, 170 Gaza Flotilla Activists Ahead of Hamas Talks in Egypt

Jerusalem / Cairo – October 6, 2025: Israel has deported Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg along with 170 other international campaigners who were detained last week while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza through a civilian flotilla. Flotilla Intercepted in International Waters According to Israeli officials, naval forces intercepted over 40 boats from the Global Sumud Flotilla about 70 nautical miles off Gaza’s coast, in what they described as a breach of the maritime blockade. The convoy carried around 470 participants from across Europe and North America who claimed their mission was purely humanitarian. The Israeli Foreign Ministry shared a photo of Thunberg, dressed casually in a grey tracksuit, at an airport before her deportation. Authorities said all detainees’ “legal rights were fully respected,” dismissing the flotilla as a “publicity stunt” designed to discredit Israel. Activists Allege Mistreatment Some passengers who were released earlier alleged harsh treatment in Israeli custody, though these claims have not been independently verified. Thunberg herself had previously attempted to reach Gaza by sea, and this marks the second time Israel has deported her. Officials confirmed the activists were flown to Greece and Slovakia, and included citizens of multiple countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Sweden, Poland, the UK, the US, and several others. Peace Talks Begin in Egypt Meanwhile, in Cairo, indirect talks between Israel and Hamas are expected to begin as mediators attempt to advance Donald Trump’s proposed Gaza peace framework. The discussions—described as preparatory—started around 10:00 local time (08:00 BST), according to Gaza-based correspondent Rushdi Abualouf. However, delegations have yet to hold direct meetings. The Hamas delegation, led by Khalil al-Hayya, reportedly survived an Israeli assassination attempt in Qatar last month. While Hamas has agreed to some aspects of the plan, it continues to reject key conditions imposed by Israel and its allies. Trump Pushes for Swift Progress Former US President Donald Trump, who has taken a leading role in the mediation effort, urged negotiators on Sunday night to “MOVE FAST,” saying he expected the first phase of the deal to conclude this week. Ongoing Violence in Gaza Despite diplomatic efforts, Israeli airstrikes continued across Gaza, with the local civil defence reporting 24 Palestinians killed in the past 24 hours. The International Committee of the Red Cross said it stands ready to assist in humanitarian deliveries and facilitate the return of hostages if an agreement is reached. --- Key Takeaways: Greta Thunberg and 170 activists deported after Gaza aid flotilla interception. Israel labels the mission a “PR stunt,” while participants allege mistreatment. Indirect Israel–Hamas talks begin in Egypt under Trump’s Gaza peace plan. Gaza airstrikes continue amid rising humanitarian needs.