A lethal attack by Israeli commandos on the Gaza-bound aid convoy continues to generate outrage across Europe with France, Germany, Belgium and Ireland condemning the raid.

French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner demanded an immediate inquiry into the violent act, which left 20 people aboard the aid ships killed.

"I am profoundly shocked by the tragic consequences of the Israeli military operation against the peace Flotilla for Gaza," Kouchner said in a Monday statement.

"Nothing can justify the use of violence such as this, which we condemn," Reuters quoted Kouchner as saying.

German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle, for his part, said he was "deeply concerned" about the casualties.

Belgian Foreign Minister Steven Vanackere described the scale of the force used as "extremely regrettable."

Vanackere, however, went on to say that he needed more information on the exact course of action and cause of the event, DPA reported.

Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin joined voices with other members of the international community to condemn the Israeli raid.

Martin viewed the attack as a "totally unacceptable response," AFP reported.

The aid convoy dubbed Freedom Flotilla — co-organized by the Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) — was carrying thousands of tons of supplies for the besieged Gaza Strip.

More than 700 Palestinian and international activists along with journalists were onboard the ships. Nine of those killed are believed to be Turkish nationals.

(Press TV)