The Israeli government is facing mounting backlash from the media after it warned that journalists who travel aboard a planned Gaza flotilla may be banned from entering the country for a decade.

The Israeli security cabinet is reported to have decided to review Sunday's warning in the wake of the criticism.

The Jerusalem-based Foreign Press Association said on Monday the "threat to punish journalists covering the Gaza flotilla sends a chilling message to the international media, and raises serious questions about Israel's commitment to freedom of the press.

"Journalists covering a legitimate news event should be allowed to do their jobs without threats and intimidation".