Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Photo courtesy of Anadolu.
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday condemned what he described as “violent actions of Zionist” Israel against a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza, calling for the immediate safety and release of detained activists.
In a statement through US social media company X, Anwar denounced the Israeli interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters, accusing Israel of violating maritime law and undermining humanitarian principles.
“I condemn the violent actions of the Zionist Israel regime against the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission in international waters, a clear violation of maritime law and an act resembling piracy that stains the principles of universal humanity,” he said.
Anwar added that the incident resembled “pirate acts” and called on all parties to avoid harsh measures against those on board.
Malaysia has urged that the safety of all activists be guaranteed, including 10 Malaysian nationals reportedly detained and cut off from communication.
Anwar said the government is actively coordinating with allied countries to secure their swift release.
“We will not stand idly by,” he said, adding that the administration is working through diplomatic channels to resolve the situation.
The prime minister revealed he had been in contact with concerned authorities to obtain updates on the detained individuals.
He accused Israel of acting “barbarically” by targeting a mission aimed at delivering aid to Palestinians in Gaza, who continue to face severe humanitarian conditions.
The Israeli navy intercepted vessels from the flotilla late Wednesday as they headed toward Gaza to break a longstanding blockade on the enclave.
The group said Israeli forces surrounded the convoy in international waters near the Greek island of Crete, jammed communications, and seized 21 vessels, adding that 17 vessels managed to escape and enter Greek waters following the incident.
The flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid for Gaza, aims to break Israel’s blockade and open a humanitarian corridor by sea.
The move came hours after Hebrew media reported that Israel was preparing to intercept the flotilla, which includes around 100 boats in total carrying nearly 1,000 activists from several countries.
Israel has imposed a blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2007, leaving about 1.5 million Palestinians out of roughly 2.4 million homeless after their homes were destroyed during the war. (Anadolu)