The Israeli navy has told a flotilla carrying aid towards Gaza to change course, as activists say the boats have been intercepted.
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) wrote on social media that some of its vessels had been boarded by military personnel after being approached by Israeli ships and that it was working to confirm the status of those aboard.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry said the navy had told the flotilla to change course as it was approaching an active combat zone. Israel has not yet confirmed it has boarded any vessels.
Israel has previously said it would not let the flotilla reach its destination. An earlier attempt saw activists detained by Israeli forces and taken to shore.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated the flotilla was violating a lawful naval blockade that covers the waters next to Gaza - though it is unclear if the boats had entered the blockade zone.
The GSF reported that multiple ships including the Alma, one of the main vessels, as well as the Surius and the Adara, had been intercepted and boarded.
It accused the Israeli military of intentionally damaging ship communications, in an attempt to block distress signals and stop the livestream of their illegal boat boarding.
Several webcams are still livestreaming and show activists aboard the ships.
The GSF indicated that it was approximately 70 nautical miles from Gaza's shoreline, expressing hope that the vessels would arrive by Thursday morning.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed that the GSF flotilla was being intercepted and ensured that any possible boarding operation would take place under security considerations.
Italy's foreign minister stated he had received reassurances from Israel regarding the non-violent conduct of its armed forces towards the 500 individuals aboard, including notable figures such as Italian politicians and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Israel has previously blocked two attempts by activists to deliver aid by ship to Gaza in June and July.
Italy and Greece have called on Israel to ensure the safety of the activists, as they closely monitor the situation.
