Climate activist Greta Thunberg on Tuesday urged countries that have recognised a Palestinian state to translate symbolic gestures into concrete action to pressure Israel to end its offensive in Gaza.
Thunberg is attempting to reach Gaza aboard a flotilla of over 50 boats, carrying humanitarian supplies to the besieged enclave. Speaking via video conference near Greece, she said: “Of course it’s good that the Palestinian cause is more on the agenda, but these symbolic gestures will lead nowhere unless they are accompanied with real action.”
She added that states have a legal duty to prevent what a United Nations Commission of Inquiry and human rights groups have described as “genocide.” Israel rejects that characterisation, arguing that its military campaign does not constitute genocide and that recognising a Palestinian state rewards terrorism.
The conflict, triggered by a Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023, has left over 65,000 Palestinians dead, according to local health authorities, and 1,200 Israelis, according to Israeli tallies. The war also saw 251 Israelis taken hostage.
Thunberg previously attempted to break Israel’s naval blockade in June but was intercepted and deported along with fellow activists. The blockade has been in place since 2007, following Hamas’ takeover of Gaza, with Israel citing security concerns.
The new Global Sumud Flotilla—named after the Arabic word for “steadfastness”—includes thousands of participants from 44 countries. Two weeks ago, the flotilla reported being targeted by drone strikes while docked in Tunisia, though no one was injured. Tunisian authorities are investigating.
Thunberg, known for her early climate activism, acknowledged the dangers the flotilla faces but emphasised the disproportionate risks endured daily by Palestinians in Gaza.
“We have drones flying above us every night, but for Palestinians, especially in Gaza, those drones are dropping bombs constantly,” she said. “This mission is about Gaza, it isn’t about us. And no risks that we could take could even come close to the risks the Palestinians are facing every day.”
Israel’s Foreign Ministry has criticised the flotilla, asserting it serves Hamas rather than Gaza’s civilians.
Thunberg recently stepped down from the Sumud Flotilla’s steering committee over disagreements on communications strategy but affirmed her commitment to the Palestinian cause, saying she could contribute more effectively outside a leadership role.
Melissa Enoch
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