Israel vowed to stop the 'Madleen', a ship carrying pro-Palestinian activists and aid, from reaching Gaza, threatening to use any means necessary to enforce its naval blockade. The ship, sailing under the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's banner, departed from Sicily on June 1st and is currently nearing Gaza. Notable passengers include Greta Thunberg and a member of the European Parliament. Israel maintains the blockade to prevent weapons smuggling into Gaza, imposed after Hamas seized control in 2007.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.