PUTRAJAYA — Malaysia has strongly condemned what it described as “criminal and cowardly acts of aggression” by Israeli forces against the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission carrying aid to Gaza that was intercepted on October 2.

In a statement today, Wisma Putra said the unprovoked actions constituted “a flagrant violation of international law, including international maritime law, international humanitarian law and international human rights law.”

It demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all activists, humanitarian workers and crew members detained, including 12 Malaysians, as well as their vessels. 

The government also called for the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Malaysia reiterated that the flotilla was a legitimate and peaceful mission aimed at delivering much-needed assistance to Palestinians facing genocide, starvation and worsening humanitarian conditions.

“At a time when the Palestinian people are facing genocide, starvation, deteriorating health and other unimaginable sufferings, this mission is not only lawful under international law but also a moral obligation that the international community must respect and protect,” the statement said.

Malaysia also urged the United Nations Security Council and the international community to take urgent action to end Israel’s “impunity,” enforce international law and hold it accountable.

“The international community must no longer tolerate Israel’s blatant disregard for global norms and principles,” the statement added.

Malaysia said it remained committed to supporting genuine efforts towards a just and lasting peace, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.