23 Malaysians Detained on Gaza Aid Flotilla Return Home Safely

Twenty-three Malaysians who were part of an international aid flotilla to Gaza have been released by Israeli authorities and are expected to return home by October 6, 2023. According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the group has departed Israel and is currently in Istanbul, Türkiye, where they will undergo medical checks.

The ministry confirmed on Saturday that all detained Malaysians are safe and in good health. They will remain in Istanbul for health assessments before their return to Malaysia. In its statement, the ministry expressed its “deepest appreciation” to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his leadership and efforts in securing the group’s swift release. It also thanked the Turkish government for its “pivotal facilitation and support,” along with the assistance from the governments of Jordan, Egypt, the United States, and ASEAN countries.

Details of the Flotilla and Release

The 23 Malaysians were among approximately 500 activists, parliamentarians, and lawyers aboard the flotilla, which consisted of 44 civilian vessels carrying food and medical supplies to Gaza. Notable figures in the mission included renowned Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The flotilla intended to reach Gaza on October 5, but was intercepted by the Israeli military on October 3, resulting in the detainment of participants from over 40 countries.

Among the detained Malaysians were singers Zizi Kirana and Heliza Helmi. Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby, director-general of the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre, a regional solidarity movement supporting the flotilla, confirmed that the activists have left Israel on a Turkish Airlines flight, fully arranged and sponsored by the Turkish government.

In a statement, Sani expressed gratitude on behalf of families and supporters for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership and the Malaysian government’s relentless efforts, which he described as crucial in negotiating the release of the Malaysians.

International Awareness and Humanitarian Efforts

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took to social media to thank Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and leaders of other “friendly countries” for their assistance in facilitating the release. While the flotilla could not reach its destination, Malaysia’s foreign ministry stated that the mission succeeded in “raising further international awareness about the illegal blockade” by the Israeli government.

The ministry emphasized that participation in the mission reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause, opposing what it termed the ongoing “genocide, starvation, tragic humanitarian catastrophe and destruction in Gaza.” The Malaysian government pledged to continue collaborating with international partners to ensure that humanitarian efforts are protected and that global solidarity for Palestine remains strong.

As the 23 Malaysians prepare for their return, their experience highlights the ongoing challenges and international efforts surrounding humanitarian aid to Gaza. The situation continues to draw attention to the broader issues faced by the region.