FRIENDS of two well-known East End political activists fear the worst after they were caught up in an Israeli attack on an aid convoy. Kevin Ovenden and Noor Chaudhury - both Respect party members - have been missing since the Israelis opened fire

FRIENDS of two well-known East End political activists fear the worst after they were caught up in an Israeli attack on an aid convoy.

Kevin Ovenden and Noor Chaudhury - both Respect party members - have been missing since the Israelis opened fire on a six-boat aid convoy on Sunday, in the Mediterranean Sea.

Just hours before the attack, Mr Ovenden wrote on his blog: "The Israeli media is reporting that Israel will deploy a very large naval force.

"All aboard are prepared. This is a very serious situation and we are calling on everyone involved to play their part in helping ensure the aid reaches Gaza without difficulty."

Sources say at least nine people were killed during the attack - although other estimates put the death toll as high as 19.

The other protestors - who were taking aid to the Gaza Strip - have been arrested and taken to Israel.

Mr Ovenden, from Newham, worked in former MP George Galloway's office in Club Row, Bethnal Green.

His colleague, Rob Hoveman, said: "I've worked with Kevin for 25 years. We are all very worried about those who are missing."

Mr Chaudhury, a Tower Hamlets resident and Respect party member is also missing.