Israeli soldiers have boarded the Alma vessel, Middle East Eye can report. Alma is a the lead vessel of the Sumud Flotilla. Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Palestinian Territories, told MEE.

Albanese said the interception is unlawful under two basic premises. Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip is illegal under international law, Albanese said, adding, "it makes no sense whatsoever."

The flotilla is roughly 80 nautical miles from the coast of Gaza. Territorial waters extend for maximum 12 nautical miles.