KUALA LUMPUR, May 1, 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim has strongly condemned Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) in international waters, describing the action as resembling “pirate acts” and a clear violation of maritime law that tarnishes universal humanitarian principles.
In a statement shared via Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s official media account Suara Keadilan, Anwar said:
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.”
The Prime Minister, who is also the principal patron of Malaysia’s Sumud Nusantara mission, stressed that the flotilla carried unarmed civilians and life-saving humanitarian supplies for the people of Gaza. He called on all parties to guarantee the safety of those on board and demanded their immediate and unconditional release.
Israeli forces boarded and detained several vessels from the 22-ship flotilla, which was carrying around 186 humanitarian activists from more than 44 countries. Among them were 10 Malaysians. The mission aimed to deliver essential aid and break Israel’s long-standing blockade of Gaza.
Malaysia’s government has made the safety and swift release of its citizens its top priority. The Foreign Ministry is actively coordinating with international partners and allies to secure the freedom of the detained Malaysians and all other activists.
Anwar reiterated that Malaysia will pursue all legitimate and lawful means to hold those responsible to account, especially where Malaysian nationals are involved.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is an international civilian-led humanitarian initiative with no affiliation to any political or militant group. It has drawn support from governments and organisations worldwide that view it as a peaceful effort to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
This latest incident has sparked strong reactions from Malaysia and other nations, with many describing the interception as provocative and contrary to international law.
The Malaysian government continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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