PETALING JAYA: The interception of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla aid mission is an inhumane act, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
“These vessels carry volunteers and essential supplies for the Palestinian people suffering under a cruel blockade, yet they are met with intimidation, force and coercion,” he said in a statement on Thursday (Oct 2).
“This mission is a symbol of the world’s solidarity, compassion and hope for Palestine. Israel’s actions are not only an injustice against the people of Gaza, but also an insult to the universal voice of humanity,” added Ahmad Zahid.
The Deputy Prime Minister said that Malaysia will use all lawful channels to ensure Israel is held accountable, particularly concerning the safety of its citizens.
“Their safety is a priority and on this, we will not compromise,” said Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Umno president.
He added that he has been following the flotilla’s progress since the beginning and has been in close contact with the Malaysian contingent.
“I know the trials they face are immense and the challenges are not easy. However, the prayers of all Malaysians are with them. Malaysia will continue to stand firmly with Palestine until justice and freedom are theirs,” said Ahmad Zahid.
Similarly, Wanita Umno chief Datuk Dr Noraini Ahmad said that Israel’s interception of the unarmed Global Sumud Flotilla is a violation of universal humanitarian principles.
“This act violates universal humanitarian principles and not only denies the rights of Palestinians suffering under blockade but also insults the collective voice of global concern,” she said.
Noraini then added that Wanita Umno stands firmly with the Malaysian Government in demanding that Israel be held accountable for these breaches of international law and human rights.
“The safety of volunteers, particularly Malaysian citizens, must be guaranteed and cannot be compromised,” she said.
“So long as the Palestinian people continue to be denied their fundamental rights and freedoms, Wanita Umno will steadfastly support the Palestinian struggle, demand justice and uphold human solidarity,” added Noraini.
Meanwhile, Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said that the upcoming invitation for US President Donald Trump to visit Malaysia should be cancelled if those detained by the Israeli military are not released.
“Harming them is the same as harming all Malaysians,” said Dr Muhammad Akmal.
He said that if the invitation is not cancelled, Umno Youth would stage a mass protest in front of Trump during his visit to Kuala Lumpur.
“Let us confront Trump directly. Free the Global Sumud Flotilla activists,” added Dr Muhammad Akmal.
This comes after eight Malaysian volunteers, including singer Zizi Kirana, who joined the Global Sumud Flotilla mission, released SOS videos indicating they are held by Israeli forces.
There are 23 Malaysian activists and volunteers with the international flotilla of 46 vessels, which was intercepted by Israeli forces after entering the red zone about 100km off Gaza.
As of 6am Malaysian time, the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre confirmed that eight Malaysians were among those detained.
Among them is singer Zizi Kirana, whose real name is Nur Fazelah Mad Tahil, on board the vessel Huga, who was confirmed detained by Israeli forces.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has since condemned the action against the flotilla.
