Freedom flotilla will not be allowed to dock in Gaza: Sources

The 'Israeli' military has decided not to allow the Madleen, a vessel carrying pro-Palestinian activists including climate activist Greta Thunberg, to dock in Gaza, the Jerusalem Post media reported Thursday.

According to the Post, a senior 'Israeli' defense source confirmed that the Israel Occupation Forces (IOF) will prevent the ship from approaching or docking in the besieged coastal enclave. Occupation Defense Minister Israel Katz is expected to make further decisions on the matter later in the day.

The Madleen, which is carrying 12 activists as part of a civil society-led "Freedom Flotilla" to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, is expected to arrive within a week.

Initially, 'Israel' had reportedly considered allowing the ship to dock after security assessments found it posed no direct threat, according to 'Israeli' broadcaster KAN. However, the decision was later reversed to avoid setting a precedent that could weaken the blockade on Gaza.

“The IDF is prepared to operate on all fronts, including in the maritime arena,” IOF Spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Effie Defrin said at a press conference. “We will act accordingly.”

'Israeli' authorities have repeatedly intercepted similar flotillas attempting to breach the naval blockade, which has been in place since 2007.