A flotilla carrying activists, including Greta Thunberg, is expected to reach Gaza this weekend to break Israel’s naval blockade.

Activist Reva Viard, who is onboard the Madleen Gaza Flotilla told Newstalk Breakfast “we cannot accept what Israel would tell us what to do”.

“It’s not their water actually, we’re in international waters, then we will be in Palestinian waters,” he said.

“So, there is no reason why we would be stopped on this mission.”

Mr Viard said the group is determined to succeed in their goal of reaching Gaza, and that they have no intention of provoking an interaction with the Israeli navy.

“We are peaceful, mindful, loveful souls,” he said.

“This is only about peace, about love and about justice, so then we are not doing anything to confront Israel.

“We would like them to carry on what they do in Israel if they are doing good things, but they have no reason of doing anything in Palestine.”

Climate activist Greta Thunberg, center, waits to board the Madleen boat, before setting sail for Gaza along with activists of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, departing from the Sicilian port of Catania, Italy, Sunday, June 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Salvatore Cavalli)

According to Mr Viard, Israel “as usual wants to be above the law”.

“What we are doing now is legal, is needed and should not be needed, by the way,” he said.

“But this is because of Israel.

“So, it is important to remind people that this is a very legal trip that we are doing now.”

The IDF has said it "will act accordingly" in order to stop the activist group from reaching Gaza.

Food and aid were blocked from entering the Palestinian territory for more than two months, but a trickle of supplies has been allowed in over the last few weeks.

Main image: Activists of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, board the Madleen boat, ahead of setting sail for Gaza, departing from the Sicilian port of Catania, Italy, Sunday, June 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Salvatore Cavalli)