Israeli commandos take over French ship on way to Gaza

The navy boarded the ship after the pro-Palestinian activists on board ignored calls to change course.

The military had warned it would stop any attempt to break the sea blockade of Gaza, which Israel imposed four years ago in what it says is a measure to prevent arms smuggling to Gaza.

It said the vessel, the Dignity al-Karama, would be taken to a southern Israeli port, Ashdod. The international passengers are likely to face deportation.

Last year, Israeli naval commandos clashed with knife and club-wielding activists on a Turkish ship trying to reach Gaza, killing nine Turks. Both sides have said they acted in self defence.

The deadly clash drew harsh international criticism, forcing Israel to ease its land blockade of Gaza. But the naval embargo has remained intact.

Since the deadly May 2010 takeover, the navy has intercepted two blockade-busting boats.