Some 137 activists detained by Israel for taking part in a flotilla seeking to deliver aid to Gaza have arrived in Istanbul after being deported.

The individuals included 36 Turkish nationals, as well as citizens from the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Algeria, Morocco, Italy, Kuwait, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Switzerland, Tunisia and Jordan, ministry sources added.

Israel has faced international condemnation after its military intercepted all 40 boats in a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza and detained more than 450 activists.

The Turkish Airlines flight landed at Istanbul Airport.

Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said 26 Italians were on board, with another 15 still held in Israel and set to be expelled over the next few days - along with activists from other nations.

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