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MALAYSIA has issued a strong condemnation of Israel following the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) in international waters, describing the act as a blatant affront to humanitarian principles and international law.
The flotilla, which included five vessels carrying humanitarian supplies and volunteers en route to Gaza, lost communication with the Sumud Nusantara Control Centre (SNCC) in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
As of 6am Malaysian time, eight Malaysians — including public figure Zizi Kirana — had been confirmed detained by Israeli forces, with a total of thirteen reported to be unreachable. In total, twenty-three Malaysians are participating in the humanitarian mission.
At 2.03am Malaysian time, SNCC confirmed that the convoy had been intercepted by the Israeli navy in international waters while heading towards Gaza.
Among those reportedly detained was Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, who has since been transferred to an Israeli port.
In a statement issued today, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim condemned the interception as an act of aggression against a peaceful humanitarian initiative.
“These vessels carried unarmed volunteers and essential aid supplies. They should never have been blocked or interfered with,” he said.
He went on to describe the incident as “a complete insult to the rights of the Palestinian people and to the conscience of the world.”
“Malaysia will utilise every lawful and legitimate means to ensure Israel is held accountable, especially in cases involving our citizens. The safety and dignity of our people is paramount, and we will not allow it to be compromised without consequence,” Anwar stated.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Malaysia’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, declaring that as long as Palestinians are denied their basic rights and aspirations, Malaysia will continue to stand in solidarity.
“We will not waver in our demand for an end to the oppression and dispossession that has long plagued Palestine,” he said.
Anwar also stressed that the Global Sumud Flotilla represents not only humanitarian relief, but also global solidarity, compassion, and a message of hope for those living under siege.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry, in response, accused the convoy of provocation and claimed that it had been instructed to change course. The ministry further asserted that Israel intended to deliver the aid to Gaza itself.
A separate statement from the Israeli Defence Forces alleged that the flotilla was approaching an active conflict zone and breaching a legitimate maritime blockade.
Volunteers on board some vessels managed to send brief social media messages describing the use of water cannons by Israeli forces during the interception.
Malaysia has not yet confirmed the location of the detained nationals, but diplomatic channels are reportedly being activated to secure their release and to investigate the legality of Israel’s actions under international maritime law. - October 2, 2025
