Madelin: A Symbol of the Global Will to Save Gaza
TEHRAN (Defapress) - The seizure of the ship "Madelin" by the forces of the Zionist regime in international waters has once again drawn global attention to this regime's blatant violation of international law and its anti-humanitarian policies. The ship, which was sailing toward the region as part of the international Freedom Flotilla Coalition's efforts to break the inhumane blockade of Gaza, was carrying humanitarian aid and human rights activists, including Greta Thunberg.
However, the regrettable and distressing point is that the Zionist regime's seizure of the "Madelin" is not only a clear violation of international maritime law but also reflects the hostile and inhumane approach of the Zionist regime toward the oppressed people of Gaza and global efforts to support them. This matter exposes the criminal and racist nature of the Zionist regime's leaders and officials.
To better understand the "Madelin" ship, it is important to note that its name is derived from "Madeline Kulab," the first and youngest Palestinian girl skilled in fishing in the Gaza Strip. This Palestinian girl lost her father, the family's primary breadwinner, during the Zionist regime's recent attack on Gaza. Moreover, the Zionist regime destroyed Madeline's boat and her husband's, their only source of livelihood.
Now, let us turn to the story of the "Madelin" ship's journey. The ship set sail on June 1, 2025, from the port of Catania in southern Italy. It was launched to deliver symbolic humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, who are under the brutal blockade of the Zionist regime. This blockade has intensified since October 7, 2023, following the heroic Al-Aqsa Storm operation, turning the lives of over two million Palestinians into a living hell.
To better grasp the current situation in Gaza, it is essential to highlight that the lack of food, medicine, drinking water, and other basic necessities, along with repeated military attacks, has pushed the humanitarian situation in Gaza to the brink of catastrophe. In these circumstances, humanitarian efforts like the "Madelin" ship's mission symbolize global solidarity with the people of Gaza and their legitimate resistance against occupation. Yet, by seizing the ship in international waters and detaining the activists on board, the Zionist regime has demonstrated its disregard for international law and human rights.
According to news sources, the Zionist regime's navy stormed the "Madelin," diverted it to the port of Ashdod, and detained all passengers, including prominent human rights activists. This move, which Hamas has described as a terrorist act against civilians, is a blatant violation of international maritime conventions that protect civilian vessels. In response, Zaher Birawi, head of the International Committee for Breaking the Siege of Gaza, condemned this action and called on the international community to pressure the Zionist regime to ensure the safety of activists and halt this aggression.
A crucial point here is that the seizure of the "Madelin" is just one example of the Zionist regime's ongoing policy of preventing humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza. This regime has repeatedly blocked trucks carrying food and medicine, imposed restrictions on international organizations like the UN, and even attacked aid distribution centers, proving that its only goal is to intensify the suffering of Gaza's people.
Similarly, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), established with U.S. and Israeli support, has faced severe criticism for using private security forces and turning aid distribution centers into "death traps." Reports indicate that Palestinians seeking aid at these centers have been attacked, with hundreds killed or injured. These actions are not only inhumane but also reveal the Zionist regime's efforts to politicize humanitarian aid and control its distribution for military purposes.
These illegal and inhumane actions by the Zionist regime come as international opposition to Tel Aviv's policies grows. Countries like Britain, France, and even the UN have repeatedly criticized this regime's approach toward Gaza. Additionally, Jean-Noël Barrot, France's foreign minister, called Israel's decisions "unacceptable" and emphasized the regime's violations of humanitarian law.
Another important point is that Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights, stated that the "Madelin" posed no threat to Israel's security and that its seizure in international waters was unlawful. These criticisms reflect the increasing isolation of the Zionist regime on the global stage. However, unconditional U.S. support has so far prevented stronger international action.
On the other hand, Hamas, the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, has repeatedly emphasized Gaza's right to receive humanitarian aid and condemned the Zionist regime's actions. In a statement, Hamas condemned the seizure of the "Madelin" and called on the international community to denounce this Zionist piracy and take immediate action to free the ship's passengers.
Thus, the seizure of the "Madelin" is not only an illegal and inhumane act but also sends a clear message to the world that the Zionist regime is hostile not only to the people of Gaza but also to any humanitarian effort aimed at alleviating their suffering. This act once again highlights the need for global unity in supporting the Palestinian people and their resistance against occupation.
Finally, we must emphasize that the "Madelin," though small, symbolizes the global will to stand against oppression and support the oppressed people of Gaza. Its seizure is not only a violation of human rights but also an attempt to silence the voice of justice worldwide. Yet, history has shown that such oppressive measures will never crush the Palestinian people's resistance and global solidarity with them. The world must be Madelin's voice and strive with all its might to end the blockade of Gaza and defend the rights of the Palestinian people.
