PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he will contact all 34 Malaysians participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) humanitarian mission on Thursday (Sept 25).
He said the Malaysians were among activists from 44 countries who were moving closer to Gaza and remained steadfast in the face of challenges.
"They were at a location about 750 nautical miles from Gaza, and last night they were attacked by drones.
"They are indeed prepared to face that, and we hope they remain resilient against any threat from Israel," he told the media after officiating the IKONDESA@Putrajaya launching ceremony, here, on Wednesday (Sept 24).
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid conveyed Malaysians' full support for the GSF convoy and offered prayers for the success of its mission during a video call on Wednesday with Ahmad Musa Al-Nuwayri Kamaruzaman, the representative of the GSF humanitarian mission to Gaza.
"We pray for success and perseverance, strengthen your spirit to continue this task… only 750 nautical miles to reach the destination.
"This is about humanity, showing Malaysians' and the government's concern for Palestinians in Gaza," Ahmad Zahid said in the video call, shared by the Deputy Prime Minister's Office.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Musa said that the GSF participants remained in high spirits despite facing various challenges, including drone attacks, air blasts and suspected chemical assaults believed to have been carried out by the Israeli regime in the Mediterranean Sea.
He said that although some participants were traumatised by the continuous attacks last night, they remained determined to ensure that humanitarian aid reached the Palestinian people.
"Yesterday, there was a fairly severe attack, including 12 airstrikes that affected nine ships. Drones also released chemical liquids that caused pain in the faces and eyes of participants and disrupted communication systems.
"Some walkie-talkies were hacked by playing strange songs to weaken morale, but we are determined to continue this mission," he said.
The GSF, which is sailing across the Mediterranean Sea, carrying food, medicine and messages of peace, is scheduled to arrive in Gaza waters at the end of this month.
The historic mission involves more than 1,000 volunteers from around the world, including 34 Malaysians, who are part of nearly 70 boats aiming to break the siege on Gaza. – Bernama
