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Israel Intercepts Pro-Palestinian Flotilla Headed To Gaza; Greta Thunberg Among Those On Board

Israel has intercepted several vessels from a pro-Palestinian flotilla attempting to reach Gaza, diverting them to an Israeli port, the country’s foreign ministry confirmed on Wednesday. The flotilla, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, set sail carrying humanitarian aid and hundreds of activists, among them Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, despite repeated warnings from Israel not to breach its long-standing naval blockade of the territory. In a statement, Israeli officials said: “Several vessels of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla have been safely stopped, and their passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port.” The ministry also shared updates on social media, assuring that all passengers remained safe. Greta Thunberg Detained After Naval Operation Among the high-profile figures on board was Thunberg, who appeared in video footage released by the Israeli ministry alongside armed personnel. Officials noted she was “safe and healthy” following the interception. Earlier that day, Thunberg herself had posted a video on Instagram from the deck of the Alma, the flotilla’s flagship vessel. “My name is Greta Thunberg. I am on board the ship Alma. We are about to be intercepted by Israel,” she said in the clip, recorded moments before Israeli forces boarded the vessel. She and other activists from the Alma were later taken into custody and transported to the Israeli port of Ashdod. Israel Foreign Ministry put up a post on X with a caption, "Already several vessels of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla have been safely stopped and their passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port. Greta and her friends are safe and healthy." Already several vessels of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla have been safely stopped and their passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port. Greta and her friends are safe and healthy. pic.twitter.com/PA1ezier9s — Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) October 1, 2025 Intercepted in International Waters According to activists, Israeli naval forces approached the flotilla roughly 75 miles off Gaza’s coast, while the vessels were still sailing in international waters north of Egypt. Israel, however, described the area as a “high-risk zone.” Local media reported that around 20 Israeli naval ships surrounded the flotilla on Wednesday evening, ordering the boats to shut off their engines. Live streams from the activists showed passengers in lifejackets, waiting calmly for interception, before the broadcasts went offline. The flotilla, which had embarked from Barcelona a month earlier, included more than 40 civilian boats carrying about 500 people. Organizers said the group consisted of parliamentarians, lawyers, activists, and celebrities such as Thunberg and actor Susan Sarandon. They had planned to arrive in Gaza by Thursday morning with aid supplies. A Controversial Blockade Under Scrutiny Israel has enforced a blockade on Gaza since 2007, following Hamas’ takeover of the enclave, tightening restrictions further in 2009. Officials in Jerusalem argue the measure is essential to prevent weapons smuggling into the territory. The United Nations, however, has consistently condemned the blockade, labeling it a violation of international humanitarian law and warning that it severely impacts the daily lives of Gaza’s civilian population. The interception of the flotilla once again underscores the deep international divisions over Gaza’s isolation. For supporters, the mission symbolized an act of solidarity with Palestinians. For Israel, it was a matter of security. And for those watching worldwide, the presence of figures like Greta Thunberg has pushed the story into global headlines—raising urgent questions about where the line between security and humanitarian need should be drawn.

US Government shutdown: Will the Statue of Liberty go dark? Here’s what’s happening

The United States government officially shut down on October 1, yet the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island will remain open. The Department of the Interior announced their continued operation, crediting President Trump, after New York Governor Kathy Hochul declined state assistance. This contrasts with former Governor Cuomo's actions during a previous federal shutdown.

'India are No. 1, but their actions are third-rate': Former Pak cricketer

India boycotted the Asia Cup 2025 trophy presentation, refusing to accept it from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Naqvi reportedly departed with the trophy, leaving India to celebrate without it. Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali criticized India's "third-rate" actions, supporting Naqvi. India's captain emphasized their championship status mattered more than the physical trophy, adding new tension to India-Pakistan cricket relations.

‘President likes to have a little fun’: JD Vance defends Donald Trump’s AI-generated video of Hakeem Jeffries; calls it a ‘joke’

Vice President JD Vance defended AI-generated videos shared by President Trump depicting Hakeem Jeffries in a sombrero, calling them a "joke." Vance dismissed Jeffries' "racist and fake AI" accusation, stating it's acceptable to "poke fun" while negotiating. He even offered to stop the memes if Jeffries helps reopen the government.

Wedding bells! Abhishek, mentor Yuvraj set the floor on fire - Watch

Indian cricketer Abhishek Sharma showcased his dancing skills alongside Yuvraj Singh and singer Ranjit Bawa at his sister Komal's pre-wedding function in Ludhiana. This celebration follows Sharma's recent triumph as Player of the Tournament in the Asia Cup 2025, where he scored 314 runs, including three consecutive half-centuries, and received a car for his exceptional performance.

In major reforms, RBI expands credit for companies

The Reserve Bank of India introduced major reforms, allowing banks to finance mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs more freely. It raised limits on loans against shares and debt securities, easing borrowing rules for large companies. These changes, effective October 2025, aim to expand credit access, improve liquidity, and deepen capital market participation, complementing government reforms.

US government shutdown: Deadlock may continue for three days- Take a look at past shutdowns

The US government officially shut down Wednesday after Congress failed to secure a funding deal, with the stalemate expected to last at least three days. Senate voting resumes Friday, following a holiday break. This latest impasse echoes a history of shutdowns, which became possible post-1980, with modern ones, like the 2018-19 record 35-day closure, incurring significant economic costs.

E-banking a right, more safety for depositors

The RBI has significantly bolstered consumer protection. Digital banking access is now a basic entitlement for Jan Dhan and no-frills account holders, with a framework review planned. Depositor safety is enhanced as DICGC shifts to risk-based premiums. Furthermore, the internal ombudsman mechanism is strengthened, empowering them to award compensation and directly address grievances, ensuring robust financial redressal.

Trade treaty kicks in, Swiss govt seeks investment pact

EFTA Bloc nations pledged $100 billion investments in India under a new trade deal, with Switzerland seeking a bilateral investment treaty and Liechtenstein a double taxation avoidance agreement. Pharma giant Roche committed $1.8 billion, alongside other companies, as India offers duty concessions on most EFTA imports, balancing interests with firm investment commitments.