KUALA LUMPUR – A protest erupted outside the United States Embassy here today against Israel’s interception and holding of activists and humanitarian volunteers from the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which was en route to deliver aid to Gaza.
The demonstration began around noon, with police blocking participants from approaching the embassy compound.
Authorities said the rally had only been approved to start at 4pm, making the early gathering unlawful under the Peaceful Assembly Act. Several protesters were taken into custody after attempting to breach barricades and disrupt public order.
Crowds spilled onto the road, causing traffic congestion as demonstrators chanted slogans and vowed to remain until evening.
“I am here out of a sense of humanity for the Palestinian people, who have been under attack for years and struggle to receive aid,” 32-year-old Ahmad Hannafi, one of the protesters, told Scoop.
“Our friends in the GSF were not carrying weapons – only milk, food and medicine. If peaceful humanitarian missions are treated like this, what hope is there for justice?”
As of 1pm, the Sumud Nusantara Command Centre (SNCC) confirmed that 12 Malaysians were among 223 of the 497 participants held, including singer Zizi Kirana. Their vessel was intercepted about 100km off Gaza in what Israel claims is a restricted “red zone” last night.
The flotilla — the largest in years, with more than 50 ships — carried 532 civilian supporters from 45 countries. It departed Barcelona with food, medicine and messages of solidarity. Among those on board were climate activist Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela.
Several SOS videos released earlier showed Malaysian participants pleading for help as they were taken into custody by Israeli forces.
The GSF mission is part of a wider international effort to challenge Israel’s long-standing maritime blockade of Gaza, which has severely restricted the entry of essential supplies into the territory.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim condemned Israel’s actions, vowing Malaysia would pursue diplomatic and legal avenues to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Kuala Lumpur police are expected to release details of the arrests later today. — October 2, 2025