French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Monday condemned Israel's attack against an international flotilla to Gaza, a statement issued by his office said.

"The President of the Republic expressed his profound emotion to the tragic consequence of Israel's military operation against the 'peace flottia' destination to Gaze," the statement said.

"He condemns the disproportionate use of military force and sends his condolences to victims' families," the statement added.

Like Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner, the president's office also called thorough investigation into the attack and urged re-launch of peace process in the region.

Kouchner said earlier in the morning that "nothing can justify the use of such a violence that we condemn," and said he was shocked to know the news.

Israeli forces on Monday attacked an international flotilla carrying aid to besieged Gaza on international waters, killing up to 19 and wounding more than 30 others, an Israeli television reported. One of the ships had not arrived and two others had been damaged.