THE Freedom Flotilla Coalition X Thousand Madleens to Gaza (FFCxTMTGM) is expected to enter the Yellow Zone within the next 24 hours, as its lead vessel, *Conscience*, closes in on Gaza’s maritime perimeter amid heightened tensions and strategic caution.
According to Kamarul Zaman Shaharul Anwar, Chief Executive Officer of Humanitarian Care Malaysia (MyCARE), as of 2.20am today, the Conscience was less than 250 nautical miles from Gaza.
“The vessel, which carries eight Malaysian delegates, is currently adjusting its speed to delay entry and allow eight other sailing boats, including *Umm Saad*, which carries another Malaysian delegate, to regroup before heading into the Yellow Zone,” he said at a press conference.
Kamarul Zaman noted that the flotilla is deliberately avoiding arrival on 7 October, citing concerns that Israel might use the anniversary of the 2023 Al-Aqsa Flood operation as a pretext to intercept or attack the convoy.
He added that three to four drones were observed over *Conscience* during the night, as reported by Malaysian delegation head Professor Emeritus Dr Mohd Alauddin Mohd Ali. The drones’ origin remains unconfirmed.
Delegates aboard Conscience have also been in live contact with Gaza’s Al-Awda Hospital to receive updates from the ground.
“The hospital reported that their clinics are severely lacking in medical equipment and supplies,” said Kamarul Zaman. “They are forced to rely on conventional methods and adapt existing equipment creatively to treat patients.”
He relayed a message from participant Dr Fauziah Mohd Hassan, who affirmed the delegation’s resolve following the recent incident involving the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), saying it had only fuelled their determination to reach Gaza.
The Conscience is currently carrying a diverse crew of 10, alongside 20 international journalists, 21 medical professionals, three Turkish Members of Parliament, 34 activists and six members of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s Steering Committee. - October 6, 2025
