Israeli occupation forces have prepared isolated detention cells for those aboard the “Madelin” ship, which was violently intercepted on Monday as it attempted to break the illegal blockade on Gaza. According to Israel Hayom, the detainees, many of whom are international activists, have been transferred to Givon prison in Ramla, where the Israeli Prison Service has already set up separate cells in anticipation of their arrival.

The extremist Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir, ordered the enforcement of additional restrictions on these detainees, including a ban on communication devices, radios, and televisions. Palestinian symbols have also been strictly prohibited within prison walls, signalling a deliberate effort to isolate and suppress solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

The “Madelin” ship was part of the Freedom Flotilla, a civilian-led humanitarian initiative aiming to break Israel’s 17-year blockade on Gaza. The coalition confirmed via Telegram that all contact with the ship was lost after Israeli naval forces stormed it at dawn. Prior to the raid, live footage had shown the ship encircled by Israeli warships, with military drones flying overhead, escalating tension among the peaceful participants.

Israeli naval forces ultimately towed the vessel to the port of Ashdod, detaining all those on board. According to reports from the flotilla’s organisers, four Israeli gunboats had surrounded the ship before soldiers forcefully boarded it, although no violent resistance was offered.

This latest act underscores Israel’s determination to criminalise even nonviolent acts of solidarity, and comes at a time when the siege on Gaza has triggered mass starvation and displacement. The targeting of international humanitarian missions, coupled with the harsh treatment of detainees, reflects a deepening policy of repression not only against Palestinians, but also against those who stand with them.