Greta Thunberg has returned to Sweden following her detention in Israel. She has now divulged a disturbing and offensive message that was found written on her suitcase, amidst her remarks about her treatment during her detention.
Greta’s Distressful Experience
In the early days of October, 22-year-old Greta Thunberg, a renowned Swedish climate activist, was detained in Israel. She had been part of a flotilla consisting of over 40 vessels delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, challenging Israel’s enduring naval blockade.
As the flotilla neared Gaza, the Israeli Navy intercepted the ships, subsequently taking Thunberg, Mandla Mandela — Nelson Mandela’s grandson — and various European political figures into custody.
According to reports from the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, Greta has been struggling with sleep disturbances since her return from Israel.
At the shared home she resides in, Greta spent her initial night back resting through the night, something she hadn’t managed for an extended period. However, her second night was restless; she only caught about half an hour of sleep after being jolted awake by a nightmare involving bombed vessels. Clearly, the experience has left her deeply unsettled.
“My brain isn’t functioning as it usually does,” Greta conveyed to Aftonbladet.
“Held in Metal Cages”
In her conversation with the newspaper, Greta recounted being kept under oppressive conditions and observing other detainees being held forcefully on the ground.
She shared that she was physically handled by guards while others were similarly manhandled.
“They roughly pushed me into a corner, making me face the wall. ‘A special place for a special lady,’ they remarked.
During her detention, the guards reportedly resorted to Swedish insults, repeatedly addressing her with derogatory terms.
Describing the ordeal as both terrifying and unreal, Greta spoke of being confined to metal cages, standing for prolonged periods through the night, and facing threats involving gas. Further, guards allegedly disturbed rest by clattering bars and using bright lights.
“The guards exhibited a complete absence of empathy or compassion, taking selfies with me frequently. There are fragments of memories I can’t recall — there was a chaotic whirlwind of events. When in shock, focusing on maintaining calm becomes crucial.”
Greta disclosed that her suitcase had been vandalized with the phrase “Whore Greta” in bold black ink, along with a drawing of an Israeli flag and an inappropriate depiction. She recounted how the officers taunted her while they drank water as she “pleaded” for respite amid the 40°C heat.
Israel’s Response
Israel’s Foreign Ministry ardently denied Thunberg’s allegations. In a communication with The Telegraph, they asserted:
“Her rights under the law were thoroughly respected. Notably, Greta elected to extend her custody period, declining any swift return mandates. Further, she did not file any formal complaints of the supposed absurd and unfounded claims with Israeli authorities, as these events did not transpire.”
The ministry emphasized that Thunberg was handled in line with international stipulations and was safely deported on October 6.
The Gaza Flotilla and Warnings
The flotilla, carrying humanitarian supplies and over 500 activists, initiated its course in August 2025. Israeli officials purportedly issued radio alerts to the ships, indicating their breach into “a live combat zone” and suggesting rerouting.
Thunberg was among 12 individuals aboard the Madleen, destined for Gaza. When the vessels maintained course, Israeli troops boarded, arresting all on board prior to deportation.
This episode has intensified ongoing discussions around Israel’s blockade and regional activism, with supporters lauding Thunberg’s dedication while detractors criticize her for disseminating incorrect information.
