Pakistan, Malaysia, Maldives condemn Israel’s attack on Gaza aid flotilla
Pakistan, Malaysia, and the Maldives on Thursday strongly condemned Israel’s attack on the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla
ISLAMABAD (MNTV) – Pakistan, Malaysia, and the Maldives on Thursday strongly condemned Israel’s attack on the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, demanding the immediate release of detained activists and volunteers.
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu denounced the assault as “unacceptable intimidation” and “a grave affront to humanity and international law.”
He urged the international community to act against Israel’s repeated violations, pledging unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people in their struggle for justice, peace, and dignity.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said his government will take all legal measures to hold Israel accountable, particularly for the safety of Malaysian citizens among the detainees.
He stressed that the humanitarian mission carried unarmed civilians and essential aid, describing the flotilla as “a symbol of unity, solidarity, and love for humanity.”
Anwar warned that Israel’s actions not only disregard Palestinian rights but also defy the conscience of the global community.
“The government will do its best to free Malaysian citizens in custody,” he said, adding that Malaysia will remain steadfast in supporting Palestinian aspirations until “longstanding injustice and deprivation” are ended.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif likewise condemned the “dastardly attack,” demanding the activists’ release.
“This barbarity must end. Peace must be given a chance and humanitarian aid must reach those in need,” he said, expressing concern for the safety of those detained.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising more than 40 vessels and over 500 volunteers from around 40 countries, was intercepted on Wednesday by Israeli forces about 80 nautical miles (148 kilometers) off Gaza’s coast. Organizers reported nine ships were attacked and one rammed in international waters.
Israel confirmed detaining “several boats” and transferring passengers to its ports, labeling the mission the “Hamas Flotilla” on social media.
Israel has enforced a blockade on Gaza’s 2.4 million residents for nearly 18 years, tightened further since March with border closures and restrictions on food and medicine.
The siege has driven the enclave toward famine, while ongoing military operations have killed more than 66,100 Palestinians since October 2023, mostly women and children, according to Gaza health officials.
The UN and rights groups warn that Gaza is becoming uninhabitable, with starvation and disease spreading rapidly.