Greta Thunberg to Sail to Gaza on Aid Ship, Critics Sarcastically Urge Her to Stay with Hamas: 'Let’s hope it’s a one-way voyage'

Greta Thunberg, the prominent Swedish climate activist, is set to depart for Gaza this weekend aboard the humanitarian ship "Madleen," a mission that has drawn sharp criticism from some observers.

Thunberg, 22, will join a group of activists in Catania, Sicily, on Sunday, aiming to deliver essential supplies to the Palestinian population and protest against the ongoing blockade imposed by Israel.

The World Health Organization has issued dire warnings about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, indicating that three-quarters of its residents are facing severe food shortages, with many at risk of famine.

"The world cannot be silent bystanders," Thunberg stated regarding the mission organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC). "This silence and passivity that we are seeing from most of the world is deadly. We are seeing a systematic starvation of 2 million people. Every single one of us has a moral obligation to do everything we can to fight for a free Palestine."

This voyage marks the second attempt by FFC activists to reach Gaza in recent months; their previous ship, "Conscience," was reportedly attacked by drones in international waters off Malta on May 2. The FFC has alleged that Israel was behind the attack, a claim that remains unconfirmed by Israeli authorities.

Joining Thunberg on the "Madleen" are notable figures such as actor Liam Cunningham and European Parliament member Rima Hassan. However, critics have focused their ire on Thunberg's involvement, with some suggesting she should reconsider her journey.

Danica De Giorgio, a host on Sky News Australia, labeled Thunberg her "big loser of the week," expressing disdain for the activist's decision to travel to Gaza. "She’s sailing to Gaza like it’s some sort of idyllic holiday destination," De Giorgio remarked. Another guest, Prue MacSween, added, "This girl is not well, I believe, and let’s just hope she stays over there. I think that would be a good thing."

Online critics echoed these sentiments, with comments such as "I hope she stays in Gaza" and "Let’s hope it’s a one-way voyage" circulating on social media platforms.

Thunberg's trip coincides with reports that Hamas is urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to engage in discussions for a permanent cease-fire following an initial hostage release. This comes as part of a US-backed 60-day peace proposal presented to Hamas.

US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff received Hamas' response on Saturday, which included demands for the US to impose restrictions on Israel's ability to resume military actions if a permanent ceasefire is not established within the proposed timeline.