Israeli forces intercept Freedom Flotilla to Gaza, nine Malaysians on board

The interception took place while the vessels were in international waters near Gaza, according to the flotilla’s control centre in Istanbul.

The Conscience was among the first vessels intercepted, followed by Umm Saad, Milad, Algo and Medan. In total, nine vessels are part of the convoy.

Humanitarian Care Malaysia (MyCARE) Chief Executive Officer Kamarul Zaman Shaharul Anwar said Israeli forces used helicopters to board larger vessels such as the Conscience, while smaller boats were approached by Zodiac-type speedboats.

“For the smaller vessels, they come in with boats. But for the Conscience, which is higher, they use helicopters, similar to the Mavi Marmara operation,” he said.

The flotilla entered waters about 115 nautical miles from Gaza late last night and was expected to approach the 100-nautical-mile “red zone” by midday. However, Israeli forces reportedly intercepted the convoy earlier than expected.

"We received information about half an hour ago that the Conscience has been intercepted. Other vessels are still being tracked nearby. We are losing communication with two vessels," he said.

MyCARE confirmed that it has lost direct contact with the Malaysian delegation on board the flotilla. There are nine Malaysians in total, eight on the Conscience and one on the Umm Saad.

The organisation said it has notified Wisma Putra and the flotilla’s control centre in Istanbul for further action.

“We will inform Wisma Putra and the Istanbul control centre to proceed with the necessary steps."

MyCARE will hold a press conference at 12.30 pm Malaysian time today to provide further updates on the safety of the Malaysian delegation.