PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) will contact all 34 Malaysians participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) humanitarian mission today.
He said the Malaysians were among activists from 44 countries who were moving closer to Gaza and remained steadfast despite challenges.
“They were at a location about 750 nautical miles from Gaza, and last night they were attacked by drones.
“They are prepared to face such threats, and we hope they remain resilient against any threats from Israel,” he told reporters after the launch of Ikondesa @ Putrajaya yesterday, Bernama reported.
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid conveyed Malaysians’ full support for the GSF mission and offered prayers for its success during a video call with Ahmad Musa Al-Nuwayri Kamaruzaman, the GSF’s Malaysian representative.
“We pray for success and perseverance. Strengthen your spirit to continue this task... only 750 nautical miles to the destination.
“This is about humanity, showing the concern of Malaysians and the government for Palestinians in Gaza,” Ahmad Zahid said in the call, which was shared by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Musa said 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 although some participants were traumatised by the continuous attacks, they remained determined to ensure 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 to participants’ faces and eyes, and disrupted communication systems.
“Some walkie-talkies were hacked with strange songs to weaken morale, but we are determined to continue this mission,” he said.
The GSF, sailing across the Mediterranean Sea with food, medicine and messages of peace, is scheduled to arrive in Gaza waters at the end of this month.
The 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.
