Greta Thunberg, who led the provocative Gaza-bound flotilla and was detained on Monday as they approached Israel, was deported from Ben-Gurion International Airport on Tuesday morning along with three others on the "Freedom Flotilla."
Video: Greta Thunberg on a plane taking her from Israel / Credit: Usage under Israel's Intellectual Property Law Article 27a
The rest of the 12 activists did not sign a waiver that allows their immediate deportation, relinquishing their right to appear before a custody court judge. Thunberg was joined by French parliamentarian Rima Hassan and three others.
The eight who refused to sign were to remain in custody at a detention center for 96 hours, pending deportation.
Video: Greta Thunberg on a plane taking her from Israel / Credit: Usage under Israel's Intellectual Property Law Article 27a
Interior Minister Moshe Arbel declared, "Israel will not tolerate challenges to its sovereignty through provocative flotilla actions at its borders. I commend the Population and Immigration Authority for their prompt, professional efforts to safeguard national security and maintain public order. I have directed that all 12 participants be prohibited from entering Israel, per legal guidelines, and returned to their home countries."
Greta Thunberg just departed Israel on a flight to Sweden (via France). pic.twitter.com/kWrI9KVoqX
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) June 10, 2025
The flotilla, which drew widespread attention, was stopped 110 miles from Gaza's shores. Authorities towed the ship to Ashdod port, transferring some activists to Ben Gurion International Airport and others to detention facilities.
