Seoul: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has instructed 'utmost' diplomatic efforts for the safe release of a South Korean national detained by Israeli forces after they intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. Local media reported on Thursday that the president's directive followed the interception which took place in international waters.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kim Ah-hyun was aboard one of the 11 ships operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) that were attacked by Israeli forces. The interception led to the detention of Kim and dozens of other activists.

President Lee's order for maximum diplomatic efforts came after he was briefed on the situation late Wednesday. "President Lee ordered maximum diplomatic efforts for the safe and swift release and return of the South Korean national," Seoul-based Yonhap News quoted presidential office spokesperson Kang Yu-jung.

The South Korean Foreign Ministry has already requested Kim's release through its embassy in Israel and is committed to providing consular support. The latest incident followed last week's Israeli naval forces' seizure of more than 40 Gaza-bound boats, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, resulting in the detainment of over 450 activists, most of whom have since been deported.

Israel has a history of intercepting Gaza-bound aid ships, confiscating cargo, and deporting activists. The blockade on Gaza, which has been in place for nearly 18 years, has been tightened since March, exacerbating the humanitarian situation by closing border crossings and blocking essential supplies.

Since the escalation of hostilities in October 2023, Israeli bombardments have resulted in the deaths of nearly 67,200 Palestinians, primarily women and children, and have rendered the enclave uninhabitable. Negotiations to end the conflict, centered around a 20-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, are currently taking place in Egypt.