Activist aboard flotilla says Israel still intercepting remaining boats

An activist on the Global Sumud Flotilla says the Israeli navy is still intercepting the remaining boats trying to deliver aid to Gaza.

The Israeli navy began intercepting the flotilla, which consists of about 50 boats, late last night.

Ten South Africans are among the group, including Nelson Mandela's grandson, Mandla.

Reporting from the flotilla earlier on Thursday, activist Madison Bannon said the Israeli navy does not have enough ships to intercept all the boats in the flotilla.

"Some of the boats were able to keep moving towards Gaza through the night and through this morning, those boats have continued to be intercepted. Some are still travelling, and that's a developing story."

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Bannon has pleaded with the South African government to intervene.

"We are calling on the South African government and Cyril Ramaphosa to ensure the safety of our delegates. Get them home as soon as possible to ensure that the aid that they carried continues to Gaza and is not held illegally by Israel."

Israel's foreign ministry says the flotilla was warned about approaching an active combat zone, and those captured will now be deported.