A total of 161 individuals that were aboard vessels comprising the “Global Sumud Flotilla” attempting to reach Gaza and who were intercepted by Israeli naval forces, including 27 Greek citizens, arrived at Athens’ Elefterios Venizelos Airport just after 17.00 (15.00 GMT).

The most prominent of the group, climate and now pro-Palestinian activist Greta Thunberg, also made statements in front of waiting cameras and supporters after exiting the customs terminal.

The entire group, hailing from 16 countries, had been deported by Israel after being incarcerated for two days.

Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, who was part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, arrives to the Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, in Athens, Greece, October 6, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki

The vessels, which organizers said were carrying humanitarian aid for Gaza residents, were intercepted several dozen nautical miles from the coast. Thunberg, 22, said “there is a genocide going on in front of our very eyes” as she spoke at the airport.

“No-one has the privilege to say we are not aware of what is happening…No-one is the future will be able to say we did not know,” she was also quoted as saying.

A total of around 450 people were arrested when Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla in the east Mediterranean.