Malaysia condemns seizure of Gaza-bound aid flotilla

It calls Israel’s interception an ‘unlawful act’, says it’s working to secure release of citizens

- Muzliza Mustafa Malaysia Correspondent

Malaysia has condemned Israel's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters, calling it an “unlawful act” against unarmed civilians on a humanitarian mission.

The seizure of the flotilla and detention of some of those on board the 40 civilian boats, with the vessels carrying food and medicine bound for Gaza, have drawn international criticism.

Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Oct 2 that it is making every effort to secure the release of the 23 Malaysian detainees. Its statement said “all Malaysian detainees are safe and in good health, and arrangements are under way for their deportation to third countries before their safe return home”.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry said on X that the activists would be deported to Europe, without specifying which countries they would be sent to.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had earlier on Oct 2 said several of the vessels had been stopped and were being redirected to an Israeli port.

Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry described Israel’s action as “a flagrant violation of international law, including maritime, humanitarian and human rights law”, and said it is monitoring the situation closely and will provide consular assistance as required.

Datuk Seri Anwar said in a Facebook live stream on Oct 2 that his team is engaging with his counterparts in Qatar, Turkey and Egypt to ensure the immediate release of Malaysian, Asean and international volunteers and activists.