Controversy Arising from Aid Ship Seizure

Norwegian peace activist Vigdis Bjørnbakk (70) was arrested on cannabis possession and smuggling charges after the Handala, a vessel carrying aid supplies to Gaza, was seized by the Israeli military last weekend.

Israeli media outlet Mako reported that Bjørnbakk was found with a total of 21 pieces of cannabis, including some in her mouth, during a body search. Israeli correctional authorities transferred the items to police, and an investigation is reportedly underway.

Family's Rebuttal and Conflicting Claims

However, Bjørnbakk's younger sister categorically denied these allegations in an interview with Norwegian media. "That's snus (tobacco snuff)," she insisted, emphasizing that her sister has never used cannabis.

This arrest has escalated beyond a simple case of illegal drug possession into a controversy surrounding Israeli authorities' treatment of international peace activists engaged in humanitarian work amid the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Background of the 'Gaza Ship Project'

The Handala is operated by Ship to Gaza Norway, a Norwegian-based humanitarian organization, and was attempting to deliver food, medical supplies, and children's toys to Gaza residents.

Israel has maintained a naval blockade of Gaza since 2007 and has consistently seized international aid ships attempting to break through. In this incident, a total of 14 activists, including Bjørnbakk, were arrested.

Peace activists have criticized Israel's blockade policy for deepening the humanitarian crisis for Gaza residents and have repeatedly attempted "ship projects" to directly deliver aid supplies in defiance of the blockade.

International Attention

The case has drawn international attention due to the cannabis possession charges against an elderly peace activist. Some have raised suspicions that Israeli authorities are intentionally highlighting the charges to criminalize aid workers.

The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is reportedly monitoring the case to protect its citizen and has requested consular access from Israel. The truth behind this incident is expected to be revealed based on Bjørnbakk's legal response and the investigation results.