'It's quite upsetting': President Catherine Connolly 'very worried' after sister detained by Israeli forces 

Dr Margaret Connolly is among at least six Irish citizens aboard an aid flotilla who have been detained by Israel, say orgainsers of the Global Sumud Flotilla

Dr Margaret Connolly.

President Catherine Connolly has said that the detainment of her sister by Israeli forces is “upsetting”, and she is “very worried about her”.

Dr Margaret Connolly is among at least six Irish citizens aboard an aid flotilla who have been detained by Israel, organisers say.

The Global Sumud Flotilla said that 10 boats in a 60-vessel flotilla were intercepted in international waters and boarded by Israeli forces shortly after 9am on Monday.

Organisers said the interception happened approximately 70 nautical miles off Cyprus, with at least six of 15 Irish participants among those detained.

The Global Sumud Flotilla said it has lost contact with the intercepted boats.

Speaking to reporters in London, President Connolly said she is worried about her sister.

“It's quite upsetting, and I'm very worried about her, and I'm also very concerned about her colleagues on board,” she said.

“I have been very busy today. I've been in the Irish Community Centre in Hammersmith, which was wonderful. A magnificent display.

“Then I met with King Charles. I haven't really had a chance to get details in relation to my sister, and indeed equally importantly, her colleagues on the boat.” 

Speaking in Irish, Ms Connolly referred to the fact that the incident had happened in international waters, saying she was “proud” of Dr Connolly.

The flotilla has posted videos from Ms Connolly and five others, which appear to have been recorded in advance of their detention.

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In her video, Ms Connolly said: “If you are watching this video, it means I have been kidnapped from my boat in the flotilla by the Israeli occupying forces, and I’m now being held illegally in an Israeli prison.

“I am so proud to be taking part in this flotilla - it is the largest to date.” 

Ms Connolly is in Britain as part of a three-day visit, which included a meeting with Britain’s King Charles on Monday afternoon in Buckingham Palace.