Last week, Israeli forces seized the Madleen ship in international waters in the Mediterranean Sea. The Madleen ship, part of an initiative by the Gaza Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was a civilian ship carrying aid and food in an attempt to break the siege on Gaza. The 12 activists on board, including climate activist Greta Thunberg and EU parliamentarian Rima Hassan, were abducted in international waters and taken to Israel. Some were immediately deported; others were detained before their deportation, and two were held for some time in solitary confinement. Under international law, Israel has no right to intercept a boat in international waters or to deny aid to starving civilians in Gaza, which it occupies.
God of justice, you are present with all those who cry out for freedom. We lift up all who boarded the Madleen to bring attention to the inhumane blockade of Gaza. As they were abducted and detained in international waters, we remember your call to break every chain and to feed the hungry. Rebuke the powers that blockade mercy and punish compassion. Keep our hearts and minds fixed on Gaza. Let us not look away. Strengthen all who resist injustice, and stir in us a love bold enough to act.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer