Turkey has vehemently condemned Israel’s seizure of the Gaza-bound aid ship, Madleen, in international waters, labeling Israel a "terrorist state." The incident, which involved the detention of 12 activists including two Turkish nationals and Greta Thunberg, has sparked a diplomatic outcry and reignited tensions between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Turkey has labeled Israel a "terrorist state" following the seizure of the Madleen aid ship.
- Two Turkish nationals, Yasemin Acar and Şuayp Ordu, were among the 12 activists detained.
- The incident occurred in international waters, approximately 185 kilometers west of Gaza.
- All 12 activists have been banned from entering Israel for 100 years.
Seizure and Detention
On June 9, 2025, the British-flagged yacht Madleen, operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), was intercepted by Israeli forces. The vessel, carrying humanitarian aid including rice and baby formula, aimed to break the blockade of the Gaza Strip and raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis. The interception took place in international waters, approximately 185 kilometers west of Gaza.
Among the 12 activists detained were:
- Yasemin Acar (Turkish-German dual national)
- Şuayp Ordu (Turkish national)
- Greta Thunberg (Swedish climate activist)
- Rima Hassan (French MEP of Palestinian origin)
- Thiago Avila (Brazilian activist)
According to Adalah, an Israeli rights group representing the detainees, activists were subjected to "mistreatment, punitive measures, and aggressive treatment," with two placed in solitary confinement. All 12 detainees have been banned from entering Israel for 100 years.
Turkish Response and Diplomatic Fallout
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry swiftly condemned the seizure, describing it as a "clear violation of international law" and an act that jeopardizes maritime security and freedom of navigation. In a strong statement, the ministry declared, "This heinous attack by the Netanyahu government, which also threatens freedom of navigation and maritime security, has once again proven that Israel is a terrorist state."
Turkish diplomats in Tel Aviv took immediate steps to secure the release of their citizens. Yasemin Acar and Şuayp Ordu were subsequently deported to Germany. This incident marks a significant deterioration in Turkish-Israeli relations, which have been strained since the 2010 Mavi Marmara flotilla raid, where 10 Turkish citizens were killed.
International Condemnation and Humanitarian Concerns
The incident comes amid escalating international criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and its alleged obstruction of humanitarian aid deliveries. Various aid organizations and UN agencies have accused Israel of using hunger as a weapon and committing genocide in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack. Since then, over 54,880 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces.
Turkey has reiterated its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, stating that Israel’s "aggressive and lawless attitude will not be able to silence those who defend human values." The Turkish government has also imposed a total trade embargo on Israel and joined a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Sources
- Turkey says nationals on Gaza aid boat have left Israel, Turkish Minute.
- Turkey calls Israel ‘terrorist state’ over seizure of Gaza aid ship Madleen, Middle East Eye.
