Sumud nusantara: The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) convoy faced tense moments after encountering Israeli regime drones, some of which reportedly exploded in the air, causing concern among the humanitarian activists on board.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Director-General and spokesperson of the Sumud Nusantara Flotilla Command Centre, Datuk Dr Ahmad Sani Araby Al-Kahery, reported that the flotilla experienced intimidation tactics involving up to 15 drones flying at low altitudes in intervals of every 10 minutes. Eight aerial explosions were noted in the surrounding airspace by both the delegation and nearby vessels, believed to be a deliberate threat against the mission.
Ahmad Sani Araby further explained that the drones are suspected to be used for surveillance and intelligence-gathering by the Israeli regime. Despite the disturbances, he confirmed that all 34 Malaysian delegates participating in the humanitarian mission to Gaza remain safe.
The flotilla is currently navigating in the grey zone within Greek waters, approximately 750 nautical miles from Gaza, and has not yet entered the designated yellow or red zones. This incident marks the fourth disturbance since the mission began its journey across the Mediterranean, with such acts believed to be intentional intimidation efforts against the humanitarian activists.
Reiterating the mission's objectives, Ahmad Sani Araby emphasized that the flotilla's activities are strictly non-violent, focused on delivering humanitarian aid and advocating for an end to war and famine. He urged national and global leaders to take action against the provocations targeting civilian humanitarian activists.
The GSF consists of more than 50 vessels carrying participants from various countries, including doctors, journalists, and activists, aiming to challenge the Israeli blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The ongoing Israeli military offensive has resulted in over 65,000 Palestinian deaths and left Gaza devastated, with its population facing severe famine conditions.