SBS News June 9, 2025
Israeli forces intercept and board Freedom Flotilla yacht Madleen as it nears Gaza;

Israeli forces have intercepted and boarded the Freedom Flotilla yacht Madleen as it neared Gaza, with all communication from the vessel cut off shortly after. Israeli forces have boarded the Freedom Flotilla yacht, the Madleen, as it approached Gaza, with all communication with the vessel lost.

In a series of Tweets, those aboard indicated that an Israeli intervention was imminent;

Video from the scene shows the Madleen illuminated by bright lights as those aboard scrambled to throw their phones overboard, to prevent information on them falling into the hands of the Israeli military. Then moments later the yacht is boarded and all communication is lost.

Israel had warned it would take whatever measures necessary to stop the boat carrying pro-Palestinian activists and aid from reaching Gaza.

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition says its vessel, which departed from Sicily, is carrying humanitarian aid and was prepared for a possible Israeli intervention.
The Israeli military says the Madleen is now being towed to Ashdod.