Malaysia Stands Firm With Gaza, Volunteers' Courage A Symbol Of Solidarity - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 22 (Bernama) -- The courage of Malaysian humanitarian volunteers championing the plight of Palestinians in Gaza has become a symbol of the nation’s steadfast commitment to universal humanitarian principles on the international stage.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that as major world powers remained silent and penalised those who spoke out against the atrocities of the Zionist regime, Malaysia openly supported the Global Sumud Flotilla’s humanitarian mission to Gaza.

“When the flotilla was attacked by Israel forces on Oct 2, and the humanitarian volunteers, including 23 Malaysians, were detained, we acted swiftly without delay.

“Every moment was used to devise strategies, mobilise diplomatic channels and ensure their safety as the nation’s absolute priority,” he posted on Facebook.

He said high-level negotiations with Turkiye, Egypt, Jordan and the United States led to the safe release of all Malaysian volunteers, who returned home on Oct 7, bringing relief and joy to Malaysians closely following the developments.

“Their bravery in crossing the seas and their steadfast resolve in defending our brothers and sisters in Palestine, despite being treated harshly in Israeli detention, reflect the strength of Malaysia’s solidarity.

“May this courage continue to burn brightly and guide us to stand firmly with Gaza until justice is upheld on the soil of a free Palestine,” he said.

The Global Sumud Flotilla aid mission, involving more than 500 activists from 44 countries, including Malaysia, began its voyage to Gaza in late August and early September as a show of solidarity and an effort to break Israel’s blockade by delivering essential supplies.

However, the aid flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces in a restricted zone of the Mediterranean Sea on Oct 2, with all volunteers forcibly taken to the Port of Ashdod.

-- BERNAMA