Paris protest erupts over Gaza boat seizure
Thousands of protesters gathered in central Paris demanding the release of French nationals aboard the charity vessel Madleen, which was seized by Israeli forces while attempting to break the naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. The British-flagged yacht, operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, aimed to deliver symbolic aid to Gaza and raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis there. Among the six French citizens on board was Rima Hassan, a Member of the European Parliament from the hard-left France Unbowed party, whose founder, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, participated in the protest.
French President Emmanuel Macron has also called for the release of the detained individuals. The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed that the vessel is under Israeli control and stated that the passengers are expected to return to their home countries. The Madleen was intercepted approximately 185 kilometers from Gaza while carrying humanitarian supplies, including baby formula, food, and medical supplies.
In a symbolic act, activists dyed the water of the Fontaine des Innocents blood-red to represent the violence in Gaza, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The protest was organized by various NGOs, including Greenpeace France and Oxfam France, urging the French government to take action.
The interception of the Madleen has drawn international criticism, with human rights organizations questioning the legality of Israel's actions. Amnesty International's Secretary-General, Agnes Callamard, condemned the interception, stating that it violates Israel's legal obligations toward civilians in Gaza. In response to the detentions, Macron has called for the immediate release of the French citizens, while the seized aid is expected to be delivered to Gaza through established channels. The protests in Paris are part of a larger wave of demonstrations across Europe, reflecting widespread opposition to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and calls for increased humanitarian assistance to the region.
