Statement by the Executive Bureau of the Fourth International.
For three months Israel has blocked virtually all humanitarian aid to Gaza leading to the threat of mass starvation, deaths and epidemics from the lack of medical care,
The Madleen was the latest attempt by the Freedom Flotilla coalition to challenge the Israeli naval blockade and bring symbolic humanitarian aid to Gaza. Dismissed by Netanyahu as the “selfie cruise”, the courageous human rights activists aboard, including French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan and environmental activist Greta Thunberg, first diverted to pick up and take to safety Sudanese war refugees. Then while still in international waters the Madleen was accosted and invaded by Israeli forces who arrested the entire crew.
This was not the first time that Israel has flagrantly disregarded international law. Israel does not have the right to blockade Gaza, Israel does not have the right to prevent humanitarian ships from docking in Gaza. Nor does Israel have the right to board or attack these boats in international waters.
The Fourth International condemns the genocidal course of the Israeli goverment and calls for:
• Immediate release of the crew members!
• Imposition of sanctions against Israel!
• An end to arms trade with Israel!
• A massive worldwide mobilization to put an end to this genocide.
9 June 2025