LONDON: An Israeli court ruled to keep in detention eight pro-Palestine activists who were arrested this week by the Israeli navy aboard the Madleen ship, which was bound for Gaza. The British-flagged vessel, operated by the pro-Palestinian Freedom Flotilla Coalition, had 11 activists and a journalist on board, including the Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg, who was carrying aid for Palestinians in Gaza as an act of solidarity amid the Israeli attacks. Israel released Thunberg on Tuesday following pressure from European governments.

Israeli media says activists face detention if they fail to comply with Israeli army orders.

Madleen has 12 activists on board, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg. Israel has ordered its military to block the vessel.