PUTRAJAYA: The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) humanitarian mission currently sailing in international waters is expected to enter the R3 red zone, about 100 nautical miles from Gaza, at 9pm Malaysian time, says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The Communications Minister said the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre (SNCC) reported that the flotilla, which was now in the yellow zone, also faced a tense situation at 8.45am (Malaysian time) on Wednesday when approached by what is believed to be an Israeli vessel.
"GSF boats are expected to enter the red zone within a few hours and the presence of the vessel is concerning," he said at a weekly press conference here on Wednesday.
Fahmi also said about 10 drones were detected hovering over the flotilla but no physical interception had taken place and the flotilla delegation remains on alert.
He said that if the boats are intercepted and communication cut off, several measures had been prepared and would be activated according to procedure.
"The movement (of the GSF mission) is being broadcast live via closed-circuit television (CCTV) installed on the vessels for the world to watch in the event of any incident.
"We pray for the success of the mission and for the safety of all participants. We must continue to help build the narrative in support of peace in Gaza and also ensure this effort achieves success," he said.
Fahmi said that apart from the two GSF groups already in the yellow zone, there was also a third group involving a Malaysian team on its way that would depart from Greece soon.
"With the third wave, the number of Malaysian participants will be larger. For their families here (in Malaysia), assistance will be provided and if anything happens, the government will certainly provide immediate assistance for the participants," he said.
Fahmi said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim visited the SNCC on Tuesday (Sept 30) and informed that several forms of assistance had been arranged, including for the families of the 34 Malaysian participants.
Asked about Malaysia's stance regarding the latest peace framework proposed by the United States on Gaza, Fahmi said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi would be issuing an official statement on the matter.
A total of 34 Malaysians have joined the GSF mission, which involves activists from 45 countries sailing to Gaza to break the blockade.
The flotilla had earlier faced various obstacles, including drone attacks.
Malaysia became the first country to recognise the mission through the support of Anwar.
The GSF voyage across the Mediterranean Sea carries food, medicine and a message of peace, urging an end to war and famine while also demanding the opening of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza. – Bernama
