Israel arrests 480 activists, deports 48 over commando raid

Israel has arrested 480 pro-Palestinian activists and deported 48 following its deadly commando raid on an aid flotilla headed to the blockaded Gaza Strip, local private radio station reports, as quoted by Antara state news agency.

The activists were detained in Ashdod Prison in southern Israel, while the remaining 48 were being taken to Ben Gurion Airport for deportation.

The report did not give any details on the identity of the activists.

The raid, which occurred early Monday morning, has claimed 19 lives so far and injured dozens of activists.