Anwar said the flotilla was unlawfully intercepted in international waters, adding that this was a provocative act that breached international laws.

“Detaining the humanitarian mission which was bringing aid for the people of Gaza is an inhumane act that violates fundamental human rights.

“I demand that all Malaysian activists and volunteers be freed immediately, offered the necessary protection, and remain unharmed throughout their time being detained (by Israel),” he said in a statement.

The prime minister said the government would do all that it could to protect the lives of the Malaysians involved, and that he would be in touch with other nations and international bodies to facilitate their release.

Humanitarian Care Malaysia (MyCARE) earlier said that nine vessels had been intercepted by Israeli forces, including two which were carrying the Malaysians. It said it had no details on the well-being of those onboard.

Eight Malaysians were on board the Conscience, including three doctors: Dr Fauziah Hassan, Dr Hafiz Sulaiman and Dr Ili Syakira Suhaimi.

The group, led by academic Alauddin Ali, also comprised lecturers Afandi Salleh and Noorhasyimah Ismail, MyCARE board of trustees member Norsham Abu Bakar, and Astro Awani reporter Syafik Shukri Abdul Jalil.

Another Malaysian academic, Maziah Muhammad, was on board the Umm Saad vessel.

There are a total of 150 participants from 25 countries in the flotilla.