Malaysian Leaders Rally for Gaza Aid Amid Israeli Interception

Malaysia’s king, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, expressed strong support for the international aid flotilla bound for Gaza, characterizing it as a “noble humanitarian mission without borders.” His comments came in response to the Israeli military’s interception of the flotilla, which was carrying vital food and medical supplies. The king criticized the actions taken by Israel, stating that obstructing such aid violates universal humanitarian principles.

The Global Sumud Flotilla set sail with 44 civilian vessels and included approximately 500 participants, such as parliamentarians, lawyers, and activists, among them noted climate activist Greta Thunberg. The fleet aimed to reach Gaza by the morning of October 5, 2023, but was intercepted by the Israeli military on October 4 and diverted to an Israeli port. Participants from over 40 countries were detained, including 23 Malaysians, sparking widespread protests.

Demonstrations erupted globally, with significant actions in Italy, Spain, France, and Ireland. In Kuala Lumpur, thousands marched towards the United States embassy, demanding that the U.S. pressure Israel to release the detained Malaysians. Protesters voiced their concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where civilians are reportedly facing severe food shortages.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim condemned the Israeli actions, referring to the interception as “utter contempt not only for the rights of the Palestinian people but also for the conscience of the world.” He reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to using all lawful means to hold Israel accountable, particularly regarding the treatment of its citizens involved in the flotilla.

The Malaysian Foreign Ministry, Wisma Putra, confirmed on the evening of October 4 that all detained Malaysians are “safe and in good health” and will be deported to third countries. The director-general of the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre, Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby, stated that the Malaysian government is actively working to secure the safe release of its citizens. The Sumud Nusantara centre represents regional solidarity efforts for the flotilla.

In a recorded message, singer Zizi Kirana, one of the detained Malaysians, described her situation as an abduction by Israeli forces. She appealed to Prime Minister Anwar for her immediate and unconditional release, asserting that their mission was peaceful and compliant with international law. Other detained Malaysians echoed her sentiments in similar messages.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail called for orderly and lawful protests against Israel’s actions. He noted that police had to intervene during demonstrations, resulting in the arrest of two individuals for obstructing officers. Saifuddin emphasized that police are present to maintain public safety and order.

On October 5, the U.S. embassy agreed to receive a memorandum from protesters, which included demands for the immediate release of all detained volunteers, guarantees for the safety of unarmed activists, and a rejection of the Gaza peace plan proposed by former President Donald Trump. The protests in Kuala Lumpur coincide with Malaysia’s preparations for the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, during which Trump is scheduled to visit.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza escalated following an attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and numerous hostages taken in Israel. In response, Israel launched extensive military operations in Gaza, which have reportedly resulted in over 66,000 deaths, predominantly among civilians, according to local health authorities.

The situation remains tense as Malaysia’s leaders continue to advocate for the release of their citizens and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As protests unfold, the international community watches closely, awaiting further developments in this pressing humanitarian issue.