Israel has intercepted a Gaza-bound aid ship carrying Greta Thunberg and other prominent activists, detaining those onboard, with the vessel being taken to Israel.

The British-flagged yacht Madleen, which is operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, was aiming to deliver symbolic aid to Gaza.

Freedom Flotilla Coalition's Madleen was forcibly intercepted by the Israeli military on Monday as it approached the Gaza Strip. The 12 activists on board the ship, including Greta Thunberg, have been detained by Israel for "interrogation" and will be taken to the Ashdod port.