Global Sumud Flotilla expected to enter red zone tomorrow - SNCC

SEPANG - The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) is expected to enter the red zone within 28 hours, around 7pm tomorrow, said Sumud Nusantara Command Centre (SNCC) director-general Datuk Dr Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby.

The Malaysian Consultative Council for Islamic Organisation (Mapim) chief executive officer said all GSF vessels have so far been confirmed to have entered the second-level yellow zone at 3pm today.

"The vessels are currently 227 nautical miles from the Gaza coastline. No attacks or suspicious drone activity were reported yesterday.

"Both the speed of the vessels and the weather conditions are very favourable. The lead vessel is travelling at 4.9 knots and everything is proceeding as expected,” he told a press conference here.

Following the latest developments, Sani Araby said SNCC will activate live CCTV broadcasts from selected vessels as a precautionary security measure.

Sani Araby said the entry of GSF vessels into the red zone requires full attention, as it is classified as a critical area.

"We consider this a critical zone because the vessels could be intercepted at any time, usually at night.

"This is based on patterns observed in previous missions, namely Madleen, Handala and Mavi Marmara," he said.

He added that the Malaysian delegation participating in the GSF mission is reported to be in good health and urged all parties to pray for the mission's success.

"SNCC once again stresses that this centre should be treated as the official source. Any unauthorised information would serve Zionist propaganda and create a false narrative," he said.

He also said SNCC confirmed that two flotilla vessels, Nusantara (Tunisia) and Taigete (Italy), had suffered serious damage and could not continue their journey to Gaza.

"SNCC received reports that the vessels Sirius and Free Willy were damaged but successfully repaired and have continued their journey.

"Damage to the Fair Lady required it to be towed by the Estrella Manuel to continue sailing," he said, adding that SNCC also confirmed the presence of two GSF vessels, Sunflower and Australe, from Turkiye.

He urged all parties to follow updates on the mission via SNCC and the tracker website provided.

The Global Sumud Flotilla voyage across the Mediterranean Sea carries food supplies, medicines and a message of peace, urging an end to war and famine, while demanding the opening of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza.

A total of 34 Malaysians are among activists from 45 countries sailing to Gaza to break the blockade on the enclave, remaining steadfast despite facing obstacles and threats, including drone attacks.

Malaysia was the first country to officially recognise the mission through Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's support. - BERNAMA