Irish Nobel prize winner Mairead Maguire and compatriot Derek Graham have been detained by Israeli authorities. The pair was onboard the Spirit of Humanity which was bound for Gaza when it was intercepted by Israeli forces.
 
The two were part a group of 21 peace activists who were detained and Irish Minister for Foreign affairs Michael Martin is working with his counterparts to ensure their safety and well-being.
 
The Irish pair were onboard the ship, which was attempting to deliver supplies to the Gaza Strip.
 
“My immediate priority is ensuring the safety and welfare of Ms. Maguire and Mr. Graham and securing their release as soon as possible," said Martin.
 
"I have been assured by the Israeli authorities that they are both well and are being properly treated. An officer from the Irish Embassy in Tel Aviv visited yesterday with Ms. Maguire and Mr. Graham to provide assistance and will endeavor to make a further consular visit today.
 
“I would again renew my call for the release of Ms. Maguire and Mr. Graham as well as the other nineteen passengers detained on The Spirit of Humanity," he said.
 
“I would also call upon the Israeli Government to ensure that the humanitarian supplies for the people of Gaza being transported on The Spirit of Humanity are made available as soon as possible to the Palestinian authorities for distribution."