Israel says it intercepted the 'selfie yacht' peacefully, offering snacks and water; activists claim abduction while tossing phones into the sea

Blockades may be used in wartime, but only if they meet 5 legal conditions. Have Israel’s actions complied with the law?

The Foreign Ministry stated that it had been in contact with the crew of the 'Madleen', and had advised the flotilla to change its course.

The Madleen boat has reached the Ashdod port in Israel after Israeli forces intercepted the Gaza-bound vessel off the coast of Egypt. Israel has vowed to deport all 12 activists on board the Madleen, including climate activist Greta Thunberg.

LONDON -- The Israeli Foreign Ministry said early Monday that Israeli forces had boarded and diverted a privately owned ship carrying Swedish human rights activist Greta Thunberg and several others, who said they were attempting to bring humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

The group is carrying supplies for Gazan Palestinians and protesting what they say is “Israel’s “illegal, decades-long blockade, and ongoing genocide” in the enclave.