Climate activist Greta Thunberg found herself at the centre of an international incident on Thursday after being detained by Turkish police at Istanbul Airport during a protest against Israeli passengers.
The Swedish environmental campaigner was held for several hours before being released, according to Turkish media reports. The detention occurred as Thunberg joined pro-Palestinian activists demonstrating against passengers travelling to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Airport Protest Turns Diplomatic
Video footage circulating on social media showed Thunberg sitting on the floor surrounded by other activists, holding a sign that read "No Genocide" before security personnel intervened. The protest reportedly caused significant disruption in the international departure area of one of Europe's busiest aviation hubs.
Israel's Foreign Ministry swiftly condemned the activist's actions, accusing Thunberg of "inciting against Israel" during what they described as a "violent protest" targeting Israeli citizens.
Growing Tensions in Turkey
The incident highlights escalating tensions in Turkey regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Istanbul has seen numerous large-scale demonstrations in recent weeks, with protesters demanding stronger action from the Turkish government against Israel's military operations in Gaza.
Turkish authorities have walked a delicate diplomatic line, maintaining trade relations with Israel while expressing strong criticism of its military campaign. The detention of a high-profile international figure like Thunberg adds another layer of complexity to an already sensitive situation.
Thunberg's Activism Expands
While best known for her climate activism, Thunberg has increasingly turned her attention to the Palestinian cause in recent months. She has participated in multiple pro-Palestinian demonstrations across Europe and has used her substantial social media platform to criticise Western governments' responses to the conflict.
This shift reflects a broader trend among climate activists connecting environmental justice with other social and political causes, though it has drawn criticism from some who argue it dilutes their core message.
The incident at Istanbul Airport represents another chapter in the 21-year-old activist's transformation from solo school striker to global protest figure, willing to risk detention for causes she believes in.
