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MALAYSIA has reiterated its full backing for the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) as the humanitarian convoy faced airborne intimidation believed to be orchestrated by Israeli forces during its mission to deliver essential supplies to Gaza.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting in the absence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, expressed deep concern over the threats encountered by the 53-ship convoy. Anwar is currently on a two-day working visit to Timor-Leste.
Speaking via video call with flotilla representative Ahmad Musa Al-Nuwayri Kamaruzaman, Zahid said: “On behalf of all Malaysians, we are proud of the 34 individuals who are facing possible threats from Israel aimed at sabotaging this mission.
“We are praying that no drones will attack the vessels and that the aid will safely reach Gaza.”
Zahid added that Malaysia’s support stems not only from religious solidarity but from a shared humanitarian commitment.
“This is not about religion but humanity. We are united in supporting this cause. Malaysia is proud of the courage shown by all 34 delegates who represent the nation's diversity,” he said.
He also pledged that Malaysia’s voice in support of Gaza will be carried to the United Nations General Assembly, urging the global community to open its eyes to a conflict that has persisted for over 75 years.
According to Musa, the flotilla's progress was disrupted by a series of drone attacks in international waters. Several vessels sustained minor damage after drones allegedly dropped explosives and released chemical irritants, causing skin and eye discomfort.
“There were attempts to jam communications, including one incident where a walkie-talkie channel was hacked to play disturbing music,” he said.
Humanitarian activist Zainal Rashid Ahmad, aboard the convoy with his daughter, described a tense standoff at 1:27am local time in the Mediterranean Sea.
“Fifteen Israeli drones encircled the 53 vessels, followed by loud airborne explosions using stun grenades—intended to provoke fear and panic among the volunteers,” he said.
Zainal added that one stun grenade detonated directly above his vessel, while two other boats suffered minor damage.
“These are fear tactics. Israel hopes some volunteers will panic and demand to disembark in Greece. But after two hours of this operation, all 500 crew members and 53 vessels pressed on,” he said, calling it a psychological manoeuvre ahead of the flotilla’s entry into the designated ‘yellow zone’ some 300km from Gaza’s coast.
Zainal urged Malaysians to continue praying for their safe passage, stating: “Once we step forward, it means we will continue. In the name of God and the Prophet, we have no fear.”
Elsewhere on the flotilla, Malaysian singer and activist Zizi Kirana, currently aboard the vessel Hoga, echoed the concern but remained resolute.
“We felt the tremors from drone blasts in the sky. Everyone is on alert, but we are staying strong. GSF has confirmed the presence of more than 15 drones. I heard the explosion myself. So please, keep praying for us,” she said in a video shared on social media.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising volunteers from 45 countries, is on the sixth day of its journey. It carries food, medicine, and messages of solidarity for Palestinians in Gaza. Organisers say the convoy is expected to reach Gaza waters by the end of the month, despite the escalating threats. - September 24, 2025
