GSF 2.0: Muslim Women’s Participation Allowed With Conditions - Perak Fatwa Member

IPOH, April 14 (Bernama) -- Participation of Muslim women in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) 2.0 humanitarian mission is permissible under Islamic law, subject to specific conditions, said Perak State Fatwa Committee member Prof Dr Azmil Zainal Abidin.

He said that while participation by Muslim women is not obligatory, it is allowed as the mission is humanitarian in nature rather than a form of armed jihad.

“Muslim women who wish to take part must ensure their safety is guaranteed, adhere to Islamic guidelines, and have clear and meaningful roles.

“Those who are married must also obtain their husband’s permission, as their primary responsibilities are as wives and mothers. If these fundamental duties are not fulfilled, how can welfare be extended beyond the family,” he said in a statement today.

Azmil said Islam does not impose such conditions to burden women, but rather that these guidelines are in line with human nature and religious principles.

He added that in today’s increasingly complex environment, considerations of fiqh al-ma’alat (assessment of consequences) and fiqh al-awlawiyyat (prioritisation of obligations) are essential in contemporary ijtihad.

“The true understanding of Muslim women and their roles from an Islamic perspective must be clearly highlighted to prevent deviation caused by distorted or overly liberal interpretations,” he said.

Azmil stressed that Islam does not prohibit active participation of Muslim women in charitable missions, including solidarity efforts for Palestinians, and noted that the involvement of public figures in raising awareness is commendable.

“They serve as role models for the younger generation, which has long been exposed to Western hedonistic culture that promotes pleasure as a life goal. The suffering of the Palestinian people calls for the support of the entire Muslim community,” he said.

He added that female participants must ensure proper observance of modesty, including appropriate attire, and maintain proper conduct in interactions with non-mahram men throughout the mission.

GSF 2.0 set sail from the Port of Barcelona to Gaza on Sunday, with thousands of supporters from various countries gathering at Moll de la Fusta to send off the mission, which aims to break Israel’s blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.

The mission involves more than 80 vessels and about 1,000 participants from around the world, combining maritime efforts with global mobilisation on land, including legal advocacy and solidarity campaigns across multiple countries.

-- BERNAMA