A Bohemia mother is anxiously awaiting the safe return of her son after he was taken into custody by Israeli forces earlier this week. Eric Lein, 39, was among hundreds of international activists aboard a flotilla headed toward Gaza when the ships were intercepted by the Israeli military.

“I try to be very positive, but I am concerned,” said Helen Lein, speaking exclusively to News 12 from her Suffolk County home.

Eric Lein was one of approximately 450 individuals aboard the flotilla, which Israeli officials have described as a "terror flotilla." The group reportedly included prominent activists, including climate advocate Greta Thunberg and Nkosi Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela.

In a pre-recorded video posted online by his longtime friend Joseph Fontana, Eric claimed he had been taken into custody by Israeli forces.

“If you’re watching this video, I’ve been kidnapped by the IOF and taken to Israel against my will,” he said.

Fontana is among those calling for the safe return of the detainees.

“We need them to remain unharmed and we need them to be returned to us safely,” he said.

The Israeli government has issued a statement saying that all flotilla participants are "safe, in good health, and are being processed for deportation in coordination with relevant government agencies."

Helen Lein, however, says she has received no direct information about her son’s condition or when he might be released.

“He’s there because he cares,” she said. “They’re not there out of hate. They’re there out of love. At least if I could just give him a hug and tell him how proud I am of him, I’d like to do that.”

The U.S. State Department confirmed it is in contact with Israeli authorities. In a statement, officials emphasized that there is no higher priority than the safety and security of United States citizens.

The State Department also said the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem is prepared to provide consular services to detained Americans, including arranging visits as soon as practical.