The Israeli embassy in Ireland has said a Gaza flotilla that includes an Irish ship boarded by Israeli forces today is a provocative publicity stunt that serves no practical purpose.

Israeli forces have boarded an Irish ship sailing in a so-called 'Freedom Waves' aid convoy to Gaza, it was confirmed this afternoon.

The Israeli navy has said it is ready to stop an Irish ship that is bound for Gaza.

The Israeli navy intercepted an Iranian ship loaded with medicine, food and clothing destined for Gaza and forced the vessel to head toward an Egyptian port, Iran’s state television reported today.