Gaza Mission Strengthens Resolve Of Malaysian Academic Despite Israeli Abuse

KUALA TERENGGANU, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- Despite being handcuffed twice and subjected to harsh treatment by Israeli forces during his recent detention, Prof Dr Mohd Afandi Salleh remains undeterred in his commitment to humanitarian work in Palestine.

Mohd Afandi, a law and international relations lecturer at Sultan Zainal Abidin University (UniSZA), was part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and Thousand Madleens to Gaza (FFC x TMTG) mission.

He described being restrained with cable ties, blindfolded and forced to sit for hours in uncomfortable positions without back support during detention.

Having previously been detained by Israeli in 2018, Mohd Afandi said this latest experience was far more brutal and challenging.

“The first time, I was handcuffed while disembarking the ship, unlike others whose hands were merely placed behind them. The second time, before boarding the prison bus, the abuse lasted longer. I was kicked and treated roughly,” he said at the launch of his book Politik Bukan Akidah today.

The FFC x TMTG mission involved about 150 activists from 25 countries, including nine Malaysians, aboard nine vessels. The flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces on Oct 8, less than 120 nautical miles from Gaza and diverted to Ashdod Port before the activists were detained at Ketziot prison in the Negev.

The Malaysian activists were released on Oct 10 and flown to Istanbul aboard a Turkish Airlines flight.

Mohd Afandi said the presence of eight fellow Malaysians this time provided crucial emotional support, unlike his solo participation in 2018. He added that all activists agreed to early release terms to avoid greater risks and safeguard national interests.

 “We are not afraid, but we are not trained to fight. Our goal was to break the siege, not to stay in prison. We also had to consider the wider impact on our country,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Malaysian government for its swift and effective response.

Addressing questions on women’s involvement in the mission, Mohd Afandi said their participation is vital in supporting female and child victims in Gaza, and they deserve a place in humanitarian efforts.

He also encouraged more activists, particularly youth, to join future missions, but stressed the need for thorough physical, mental and organisational preparation.

-- BERNAMA