Humanitarian Boat Intercepted off Gaza: MEP Rima Hassan Appeals for Release

On June 9th, 2025, a humanitarian boat carrying twelve activists, including European Member of Parliament Rima Hassan, was intercepted by the Israeli navy off the coast of Gaza. The incident, captured on video from multiple angles, shows the activists being apprehended. Surveillance footage depicts the boat's approach, while Israeli navy footage shows the subsequent boarding and arrest. Ms. Hassan, in a later segment of the video, directly addresses the camera, appealing for international pressure for their release, stating, "We rely on your mobilization to pressure the French government for our liberation." The boat, part of the 'Freedom Flotilla,' aimed to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza, a region facing a severe humanitarian crisis, according to the UN. The Israeli government has stated the boat was intercepted to prevent it from reaching Gaza. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges faced by those attempting to deliver humanitarian aid.