GSF Mission Did Not Enter Israel Illegally, It Was Just Bringing Humanitarian Aid To Gaza - Mohamad

SEPANG, Oct 7 (Bernama) -- All 23 Malaysian volunteers who were detained by the Zionist regime did not enter Israel illegally, they were instead intercepted in international waters while on their way to carry out the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) humanitarian mission to deliver aid to Gaza.

In this regard, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan asked the public not to be influenced by baseless sentiments and accusations.

"They did not go to Israel, they wanted to go to Gaza but were surrounded by Zionist regime's forces and detained. So, do not listen to divisive allegations," he said in a media briefing after welcoming the arrival of a group of 23 Malaysian volunteers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 here, tonight.

Mohamad also described the safe return of the volunteers as a great success for Malaysian diplomacy which at the same time symbolises international solidarity, as well as a moment of relief and national pride.

"We are very grateful to Allah for the safe return of our people to our homeland tonight. Our deepest appreciation and gratitude goes to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the continuous diplomatic efforts carried out at the highest level with the support of the leadership of friendly countries such as Turkey, Egypt and Jordan," he said.

Mohamad said the Turkish government played an important role in facilitating the release of Malaysian volunteers who were illegally detained in Israel after their ship was intercepted in international waters on Oct 2.

"Alhamdulillah, our people have returned safely. We also thank the Turkish Ambassador to Malaysia (Emir Salim Yuksel) and all parties who helped make this mission a success," he said.

Earlier, KLIA Terminal 1 was enveloped in an emotional atmosphere when 27 Malaysian volunteers, including four people from the observation ship and five lawyers, safely arrived home after participating in the GSF humanitarian mission to Gaza.

The atmosphere was filled with pride, gratitude and relief as Palestinian family members and supporters wearing keffiyehs and waving Palestinian flags filled the arrival hall to welcome the volunteers who returned at around 10.07 pm.

Their return marked the end of a difficult journey that began when the aid flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces in the red zone of the Mediterranean Sea on Oct 2 before they were forcibly taken to Ashdod Port, Israel.

-- BERNAMA