Dhaka, Oct. 9 -- Israel must guarantee the safety and human rights of all individuals aboard the 'Conscience' and other vessels of the 'Freedom Flotilla Coalition' which were intercepted early Wednesday, a UN expert has said.

"This attack against unarmed civilians on the high seas is yet another violation of international law by Israel," said Irene Khan, Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression.

The boats were intercepted in international waters by an Israeli military helicopter, while the Israeli navy simultaneously boarded the vessels, according to a UN press release.

Shahidul Alam determined as Sumud flotilla enters Palestinian time zone

The interception reportedly took place in international waters, in violation of ...