Slovenia calls interception of Gaza aid ship 'stark reminder' of humanitarian crisis
Ceasefire, immediate aid access for Gazans remain urgent, Foreign Ministry says
ISTANBUL
Slovenia said Tuesday that Israel’s interception of an aid vessel bound for Gaza underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the enclave.
"The unlawfully intercepted civilian vessel is a stark reminder of the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza," the Foreign Ministry wrote on X.
The ministry noted that while the crew of the vessel was returning home, millions of people remain trapped in Gaza.
"A ceasefire and safe, large-scale and immediate aid access remain urgent," it added.
The Madleen, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was seized by Israeli naval forces early Monday morning in international waters. The boat was carrying supplies, including baby formula and medical materials.
It had 12 crew on board, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, French-Palestinian Member of the European Parliament Rima Hassan, and Turkish activist Suayb Ordu.
Its interception has drawn widespread criticism from national governments and organizations such as Amnesty International.
