US Senator
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham is facing widespread criticism after making a controversial remark aimed at Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who is participating in a humanitarian mission to Gaza.
Thunberg, along with other activists and public figures, recently joined a flotilla organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) that set sail from Italy in an attempt to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the blockaded Gaza Strip.
The FFC mission seeks to challenge Israel’s long-standing naval blockade of Gaza, which has contributed to severe shortages of essential goods, including medical supplies and food.
The group includes several notable individuals, among them Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham, who have voiced concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza amid ongoing conflict.
Senator Graham’s comment came via a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), where he wrote, “Hope Greta and her friends can swim,” a remark widely interpreted as mocking the risks faced by the activists, potentially including violent interception at sea.
The post triggered immediate backlash on social media, with many users expressing outrage and disbelief that a senior U.S. lawmaker would make light of a dangerous humanitarian effort. “Why would a U.S. senator be threatening a young climate activist?” one user asked. Another added, “Why is a 69-year-old senator joking about the drowning of a 22-year-old? Is this what American politics has come to?”
Critics have characterized the senator’s words as irresponsible and inappropriate, especially given the serious risks involved. The Freedom Flotilla’s previous mission was reportedly sabotaged by drone attacks — believed by many to have been carried out by Israel — which damaged one of its vessels and raised concerns about the safety of such missions.
Despite the dangers, Thunberg and her fellow activists remain resolute. The group has emphasized their commitment to delivering aid and drawing international attention to the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Their journey is as much about providing relief as it is about challenging what they see as international inaction in the face of suffering.
Senator Graham has yet to respond to the backlash or clarify his remarks.
