News

Israeli gunships were standing by today to stop a flotilla of pro-Palestinian activists from reaching the Gaza Strip, setting the stage for what could become a dramatic showdown on the high seas.

Foreign minister Avigdor Lieberman said the country was prepared to stop the flotilla "at any cost".

He called the aid mission a provocation and urged the international community to show understanding for the tough response.

"We really have all determination and political will to prevent this provocation against us," he said. "I think that we're ready at any cost ... to prevent this provocation."

Military officials said an initial group of gunships went out to sea yesterday to prepare for the flotilla's arrival. But plans to dispatch additional gunships were put on hold after reports that the flotilla had encountered mechanical problems.

The officials said the gunships would remain in port until the flotilla got closer.

The military said it would intercept the ships, escort the vessels to shore and give the activists the choice of deportation or going to jail.

Israel says that after a security check, it will transfer the cargo to Gaza through the United Nations.

Officials say they hope the situation will be resolved peacefully, but are prepared to use force if necessary. Masked naval commandos have been trained for the mission and Israel has built a large makeshift detention centre in a southern port to process the activists... >>>