KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Sept 29, 2025 — The Global Sumud Flotilla, a multinational aid convoy challenging Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza, is now just 366 nautical miles from its destination, with organizers estimating arrival in three to four days.
The fleet, comprising 44 vessels from around the world, carries essential medical supplies aimed at alleviating the humanitarian crisis in the besieged Palestinian territory. Aboard one of the ships are 34 Malaysian activists, who have been confirmed safe following reported Israeli threats against the mission on September 23.
The initiative comes at a critical juncture for Gaza, where Israel has maintained a closure on all land crossings since March 2, exacerbating a deepening famine and restricting the flow of aid. The flotilla’s mission underscores growing international frustration with the blockade, which has left hundreds of thousands in dire need.
Malaysia, under Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has been a vocal supporter of the effort. On September 16, the Southeast Asian nation joined 16 other countries in issuing a joint statement calling for the safe passage of the flotilla and full adherence to international maritime law.
In a related development, more than 100 media workers and doctors are scheduled to depart on October 1 aboard a dedicated press vessel, further amplifying calls for transparency and access to the blockaded enclave.
The flotilla’s progress has drawn widespread attention on social media, with Anwar Ibrahim highlighting the Malaysian participants’ resolve in a recent post. As the vessels near Gaza’s waters, all eyes are on whether the international community can ensure their unimpeded delivery of aid.