Malaysia’s PM Anwar condemns Israeli interception of Gaza-Bound Flotilla, demands release of activists

By The South Asia Times

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday strongly condemned Israel’s interception of a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza, calling it a violation of international law and demanding the immediate safety of detained activists.

In a statement, Anwar described the actions of the Israel Defense Forces as “violent” and likened the operation to piracy, saying it breached maritime law and undermined basic humanitarian principles. He urged all parties to ensure that no harm comes to those onboard, including 10 Malaysian nationals who are among those detained and currently unreachable.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday when the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0, carrying humanitarian aid, was intercepted in international waters near Crete. According to the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre, the vessels were approximately 656 nautical miles from the Gaza coast—within a legally recognized international navigation zone—when they were approached.

Officials said the encounter lasted several hours, during which Israeli forces reportedly fired warning shots and used radio interference tactics against the flotilla. A total of 186 individuals were either detained or lost communication during the operation.

Anwar said Malaysia is working closely with friendly countries to secure the swift release of all detained activists. “Their safety must be guaranteed without compromise,” he stressed, adding that the government remains actively engaged through diplomatic channels.

The prime minister also called on Malaysians to pray for those involved, describing the situation as a test of global conscience. He reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to humanitarian values, emphasizing that compassion must prevail despite political differences.

The interception comes amid heightened tensions surrounding Gaza, where humanitarian conditions remain dire due to the prolonged conflict, drawing renewed international attention to aid efforts and maritime access routes.

Anwar said he had been in direct contact with Sani Araby, head of the Nusantara Operations Control Centre, to receive real-time updates on the situation involving the detained activists.

He accused Israel of acting “barbarically” by intercepting the flotilla in international waters, saying the move was aimed at blocking a humanitarian mission intended to deliver aid to civilians in Gaza suffering from the prolonged conflict.

Addressing the families of those detained, Anwar expressed solidarity and reassurance, saying the government would not remain passive and is actively working with friendly nations to secure their prompt release.

He described the situation as a test of global conscience, adding that prayers across Malaysia are with the activists, hoping for their safety and strength during the ordeal.