Jakarta. The Indonesian Foreign Affairs ministry confirmed ‌on Thursday, May 2, 2024, that Muhammad Husein,‌ an Indonesian citizen, was among the international activists detained by Israel during the interception of the Global Sumud ⁣Flotilla. Husein ⁤was participating in the maritime convoy attempting to deliver‌ humanitarian ⁣aid to Gaza.

According⁢ to‌ the​ ministry,‍ Husein’s current whereabouts remain unknown, but ⁣reports suggest he and other detainees have been taken to ‌Ashdod Port in ⁣Israel. The ministry is actively‍ working to secure his release and ensure his well-being, ⁤providing consular‍ assistance as needed.

Flotilla Interception and Detentions

Organizers of⁢ the Global sumud Flotilla ‌reported on X⁢ (formerly ⁢Twitter) that 15 ships were intercepted by ​Israeli forces, and 223 international activists ‍were detained. The Sumud⁣ Flotilla’s official X account provides ongoing updates on the situation.

The interception occurred amidst heightened tensions‍ in the region and ongoing international criticism of Israel’s ⁣policies towards Gaza. The blockade, imposed by Israel and Egypt in 2007, severely restricts the movement of people and goods in and out of the territory, contributing to a dire‌ humanitarian situation.

Call for Continued ⁣Support for Palestine

Muhammad Husein,in a statement relayed through the Foreign Affairs ⁣Ministry,urged⁤ Indonesians to maintain their support for the Palestinian cause. “Do ‍not tire of praying and speaking out. This struggle will continue until‍ the blockade on‌ Gaza is broken, until global silence ends, and until Palestine is⁣ truly free,” he said.

Indonesia has long been a​ strong supporter of Palestinian statehood and has consistently called for a two-state ​solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.The‍ country has⁢ also provided meaningful humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

Background: The Gaza Blockade

The blockade of the Gaza Strip began in June 2007,following Hamas’s takeover of the territory. Israel stated the blockade was necessary to‍ prevent weapons from reaching Hamas, ​which it designates as a terrorist organization. Egypt ​also maintains a border crossing with Gaza ⁣and has cooperated with Israel in enforcing restrictions.

The blockade has had a‌ devastating impact on gaza’s economy and ⁢living conditions.