Malaysia to pursue ICJ case against Israel over treatment of Gaza flotilla activists

Malaysia has signalled it will take Israel to the International Court of Justice over allegations that activists from the Gaza-bound Global Sumud aid flotilla were kidnapped and tortured, local media reported on Monday.

Selangor state chief minister Amirudin Shari said Kuala Lumpur will initiate proceedings once legal teams finish compiling evidence. Speaking at a homecoming event for Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 participants at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Amirudin said the government would not stay silent on the matter.

“While the legal team gathers all documentation on violations of international law, they were kidnapped more than once, they were tortured,” he said, adding that Malaysia would press the case at the international court, maintain diplomatic pressure, and continue nationwide advocacy.

More than 400 international activists aboard the flotilla — which sought to break Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid — were detained and allegedly assaulted by Israeli forces last week in international waters, according to reports.

Amirudin said the planned legal action responds to alleged acts of brutality, with particular concern for Malaysian activists. He also pledged that Malaysia and Selangor will sustain diplomatic efforts to demand the “full liberation” of Gaza and host international conferences to bolster pro-Palestine advocacy.

He confirmed that Sumud 3.0 is planned and that Malaysia’s support for the Palestinian cause will continue despite the conclusion of the latest mission.