MALAYSIA will issue a firm protest should the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) be intercepted or seized by Israeli forces, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said on Sunday, while reaffirming the government's commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Malaysians involved in the mission.
Speaking after visiting the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre (SNCC) on Tuesday night, Anwar said Malaysia would not stand idly by if humanitarian efforts were obstructed and would mobilise diplomatic channels in response.
“We will initiate a strong and comprehensive protest, and I will strive to contact all parties, including countries that had presented a (peace) proposal, particularly Italy, Spain and Turkiye, with support from China,” he said.
He added that Malaysia is also in discussion with France and Saudi Arabia, which are said to be exploring peace initiatives of their own.
Anwar stressed the importance of maintaining strong ties with both Western and Arab nations, as well as global powers such as the United States, to amplify calls for Palestinian justice.
“I hope our friends in this struggle are not swayed by the chatter here, (because) they understand the meaning of negotiations and the insistence for world leaders, particularly the United States, to accept the reality and the demands of the global community,” Bernama quoted him saying.
He expressed hope that the upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump at the 47th ASEAN Summit in October would help pave the way towards a resolution of the Gaza conflict, according to Bernama.
Anwar also announced that the Malaysian government would support the families of the 34 citizens aboard the GSF, ensuring their welfare is protected throughout the mission.
“We will continue to provide whatever is needed, both for our friends on the mission and for their families here in Malaysia,” he said, commending the participants for their bravery and commitment to delivering humanitarian aid to Palestinians under siege.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, which includes international activists and aid workers, is carrying essential supplies bound for Gaza amid a worsening humanitarian crisis. The mission has drawn international attention, given the history of Israeli naval blockades and previous flotilla incidents in the region. - October 1, 2025
