Global Sumud Flotilla: Madani govt sees repatriation of activists as diplomacy win

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said he personally engaged with United States (US) Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff to secure the activists' release, complementing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's broader diplomatic efforts.

He said the outcome followed complex, multi-layered negotiations involving Turkey, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan and the US, and underscored the government's commitment to protecting the safety and dignity of its citizens.

Saifuddin also praised the efforts of Malaysian diplomatic and security officials, saying their tireless work ensured the safe return of the humanitarian mission participants after their ordeal in Israeli detention.

"This success is a reminder that Malaysia will continue to stand firmly with the Palestinian people and that the voice of humanity cannot be silenced," he said in a statement today.

He added the incident also highlighted global concerns over the Israeli regime's obstruction of both Palestinian liberation efforts and humanitarian aid delivery.

Earlier, Anwar said in a Facebook live broadcast that the release involved high-level coordination, including discussions between Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as Saifuddin's engagement with Witkoff.

He said the outcome also stemmed from his own negotiations with leaders from Qatar, Turkiye, Jordan and the US, which included efforts to ensure the safety of participants from other nations alongside Malaysian and Turkish nationals.

-- BERNAMA