Ten Malaysians involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 were detained by Israeli forces in international waters but have now arrived safely in Istanbul and are in stable health, officials confirmed on May 4, 2026 [1]. Datuk Dr Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby said the ten Malaysians "remain in high spirits and have chosen not to return to Malaysia as the mission will continue," with assignments to be given from time to time [1].
Israeli forces detained a total of 21 vessels on April 31, including those carrying the Malaysians. Three vessels were towed by the Open Arms ship, one vessel named Goleta was sunk under suspected sabotage, and 17 remain adrift at sea [1]. Across the entire flotilla interception, 175 individuals were detained, with 31 requiring hospital treatment due to abuse during the operation [1].
The Global Sumud Flotilla Command is considering next steps, including combining ships from Greece and Turkey for a second wave of the mission [1]. Dr Sani Araby spoke out against the treatment of two activists, Saif Abukeshek and Thiago Ávila, who were detained for over 96 hours at Shikma Prison in Ashkelon. "Both of them deserve a fair trial and should be released immediately without conditions," he said [1].
Malaysian activists have until May 5, 2026 (today) to decide whether to continue participating in the Gaza mission [2]. Dr Sani Araby added, "During this period, we will step up our efforts and may announce the next voyage at any time" [1].
