The ongoing clash between former President Donald Trump and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has reached a new boiling point—one that’s drawing attention across the globe. At the center of the latest controversy is an incident involving Greta’s deportation from Israel and Trump’s inflammatory remarks, sparking renewed tension between the outspoken political figure and the young climate advocate.

Greta Thunberg, now 22 years old, once again found herself in the headlines after being detained and deported from Israel on June 10. The environmental activist, well-known for her passionate speeches and global climate marches, was part of a humanitarian flotilla headed toward Gaza. Along with 11 other activists, she was attempting to deliver aid to the Palestinian people in a show of international solidarity.

According to Thunberg, their boat was intercepted in international waters and forcibly taken to Israel by Israeli forces, a move she characterized as an illegal abduction. In a video recorded and shared on Instagram shortly after the incident, Greta stated, “If you see this video, we have been intercepted and kidnapped in international waters by the Israeli occupational forces—or forces that support Israel.” Her claim was direct, emotional, and characteristic of her unwavering activism.

Israeli authorities, however, strongly rejected her narrative. Officials referred to the mission as nothing more than “a selfie yacht” and accused the activists of orchestrating a media stunt designed to draw attention rather than provide real aid. They dismissed the kidnapping allegations, maintaining that the group was stopped for violating regulations related to Gaza’s naval blockade, and insisting their actions were lawful and necessary to maintain national security.

As the story unfolded, reporters sought comment from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has a long and contentious history with Thunberg. When asked during a press briefing on June 10 whether he had discussed the situation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump didn’t hold back. “She’s a strange person,” Trump said flatly. “She’s a young, angry person. I don’t know if it’s real anger; it’s hard to believe actually.”

Not stopping there, he added, “I saw what happened. She’s certainly different. Anger management. I think she has got to go to anger management class. That’s my primary recommendation for her.” Trump further dismissed Greta’s claims by saying, “I think Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg.”

The remarks quickly made headlines and ignited a fresh wave of criticism from Trump’s opponents and Thunberg’s supporters alike. Many felt the former president’s personal attacks were inappropriate and deflected attention from the actual humanitarian crisis at the heart of Greta’s mission. But those familiar with Trump’s blunt communication style were hardly surprised.

As for Greta, she didn’t let Trump’s words go unanswered. During a layover in France while returning to Sweden after her deportation, she was surrounded by reporters eager to hear her thoughts on the latest verbal exchange. Her response was sharp and unapologetic. “Well, I think the world needs a lot more young angry women to be honest—especially with everything going on right now. That’s the thing we need the most,” she said, signaling that her determination had only been strengthened by the controversy.

When questioned about the legality of her entry into Israeli territory, Thunberg was clear in her defense. “I did not recognize that I entered the country illegally,” she explained. “I made it very clear in my testimony that we were kidnapped in international waters and brought there against our will into Israel.” Greta insisted that their intentions were peaceful and humanitarian in nature, and she stood firm in characterizing the interception as unlawful.

Thunberg had joined the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a group of activists committed to delivering aid to Gaza and drawing international awareness to the humanitarian crisis unfolding there. Among her fellow passengers were Rima Hassan, a member of the European Parliament; journalist Yanis Mhamdi; Al Jazeera presenter Omar Faiad; and coalition organizers Yasemin Acar and Thiago Ávila. The group’s objective, according to Thunberg, was to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Gaza and attempt to deliver much-needed humanitarian supplies.

“This was a mission of attempting to once again bring aid to Gaza, which is desperately needed,” she said. “But also to send solidarity and say that we see you, we see what is happening and we cannot accept just witnessing all this and doing nothing—that can never be an option.”

Greta didn’t shy away from speaking directly about the dire circumstances she believes are unfolding in Gaza. “Right now, it is more important than ever because of the siege and because of the systematic starvation of over two million people, and the full-blown live stream genocide,” she declared. Her words were pointed, urgent, and clearly intended to galvanize international action.

Israeli authorities, for their part, have categorically denied all accusations of genocide or deliberate starvation. Officials continue to assert that their policies and military actions are targeted responses to security threats posed by militant groups operating within Gaza. They argue that the naval blockade and interception of unauthorized vessels are essential to prevent weapons smuggling and to maintain regional stability.

Despite the political storm, Greta remains a polarizing figure whose passionate activism resonates deeply with supporters while provoking strong reactions from critics. Her willingness to speak boldly on controversial issues, challenge powerful figures, and place herself on the front lines of global crises continues to define her public image.

This latest chapter in the ongoing feud between Thunberg and Trump is yet another reminder of the ideological divide shaping public discourse on climate change, humanitarian efforts, and international relations. While critics may question her methods, Greta’s commitment to her causes remains unwavering—and she shows no signs of stepping back from the global stage.

For now, the spotlight remains fixed on Greta Thunberg as she returns to Sweden, facing both support and scrutiny. What’s clear is that her voice, no matter how controversial, continues to spark conversations the world cannot afford to ignore.