Foreign Secretary William Hague has said Israel’s decision to conduct an independent inquiry into the flotilla clashes is an “important step forward”.

The UN has continued to call for an international inquiry, but Mr Hague praised Israel’s announcement of the probe and said he welcomed the appointment of Lord Trimble.

The former First Minister of Northern Ireland and Nobel Peace Prize winner is to be one of two foreign observers overseeing the commission.

The panel will look into the events last month on the Gaza-bound Mavi Marmara ship and at any links between the flotilla’s organisers and the Turkish group IHH, which is believed to have links to terrorism.

Mr Hague added: “Clearly it is very important that it is a truly independent enquiry and a thorough investigation that the international community can respect".

In a speech at the House of Commons following the incident Mr Hague had demanded a “full, credible, impartial and independent investigation”.

However, he added that Hamas’ role in the situation in Gaza should not be forgotten.