Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on Palestinian human rights, has demanded the British government intervene immediately after Israeli forces intercepted the humanitarian vessel "Madeleine" in international waters, detaining its crew and activists.  

Albanese condemned the seizure, stating, “The "Madeleine" poses no security threat to Israel, which has no legal right to halt ships beyond its territorial waters.” She called for an official explanation from Israel and urged the UK to secure the ship’s release, emphasising its “legitimate mission to deliver aid to Gaza.”  

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that Israeli commandos boarded the ship en route to Gaza, surrounding it with naval vessels and severing communications.

Activists prepared life jackets amid alarms before being forcibly taken. Israeli Army Radio confirmed the ship was towed to Ashdod, where passengers face interrogation.  

The activists had appealed for global intervention, warning that Israel’s actions violate international law and obstruct vital aid to Gaza’s besieged population. The incident has reignited criticism of Israel’s blockade and its enforcement beyond maritime borders.