Israel intercepted the Gaza-bound aid boat Madleen early Monday, halting activists including Greta Thunberg from reaching Gaza, which faces severe food shortages. The Israeli government had previously warned against unauthorized vessels breaching the blockade, citing security concerns, while the interception drew condemnation from Hamas and criticism over ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza. Amidst international pressure for increased aid access, recent violence near aid distribution points led to civilian casualties, highlighting the dire situation in the territory.