The lawyers begin their statement by referencing international media reports, which cite the Israeli government’s justification for seizing the Madleen as a response to a potential “terrorist threat” or the risk of “arming Hamas.”

They go on to call this claim “absurd,” arguing that it highlights Israel’s increasing isolation on the world stage and its transformation into a pariah state.

The lawyers also recount their correspondence with Frontex, the EU border agency, in their capacity as legal representatives for the twelve people aboard the Madleen. In a letter dated 5 June 2025, Frontex director Hans Leijtens confirmed the humanitarian nature of the mission, but effectively passed responsibility for ensuring the mission’s safety on to national authorities.

Reiterating their earlier point, the lawyers stress once more:

“The only ones still claiming that the Madleen posed a ‘terrorist threat’ are Benjamin Netanyahu – wanted by the ICC – and the fascist ministers in his administration, like Ben Gvir and Smotrich.”

The legal team is now calling for the immediate release of all detained activists, including French-Palestinian MEP Rima Hassan and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

“We demand they be allowed to continue their journey to Gaza with their ship, so they can deliver the humanitarian aid they are carrying. We stand with the international solidarity movement calling for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza.”

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