PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA Oct 2, 2025 – Malaysia has issued a scathing condemnation of Israel’s recent interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, labeling the operation an “aggressive” violation of international humanitarian law that endangers aid workers and civilians alike. In a strongly worded statement released Thursday, the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on the world to unite in halting Israel’s actions, which it described as fueling an ongoing “genocide” and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The flotilla—a civilian-led initiative carrying essential supplies like medical aid, rice, and baby formula—set sail from European ports last month to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza, imposed since 2007. Israeli forces boarded three vessels in international waters on Wednesday, detaining 20 activists including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg before towing them to Ashdod Port. The raid, conducted some 80 nautical miles from Gaza, drew immediate parallels to the deadly 2010 Mavi Marmara incident.
“This is not merely a conflict at sea—it’s a moral imperative for the international community to respond proportionately and decisively,” the statement read, emphasizing Malaysia’s unwavering support for Palestinian rights. Kuala Lumpur highlighted the flotilla’s role in delivering “true and humane” aid to Palestinians enduring “killings, health crises, and suffering” amid what it termed an escalating genocide.
Malaysia urged “concrete and immediate” steps from global bodies, including the United Nations General Assembly, to hold Israel accountable for breaching international norms. The Southeast Asian nation reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution, advocating for an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. “International law cannot remain silent in the face of these violations,” the ministry asserted, pledging continued backing for efforts to end the “additional occupation” and accelerate Palestinian statehood recognition.
As the detained activists face processing and potential deportation, Malaysia’s vocal stance underscores growing diplomatic pressure on Israel. With land routes restricted and sea access blocked, the flotilla’s fate—along with its cargo—remains uncertain, spotlighting the blockade’s chokehold now in its 19th year.