French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot addressed the IDF's takeover of the Gaza-bound flotilla, stating that six French citizens were aboard. "They were detained at sea by Israeli security forces," he said. "Since learning of their plans, we warned them against the risks and were in contact with Israeli authorities to prevent any incident. Immediately after the vessel's detention, we requested to provide them with consular protection. The consulate has asked to visit them and facilitate their swift return to France".