Kuala lumpur: The first group of Sumud Nusantara volunteers participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) Humanitarian Mission departed for Barcelona today, initiating a significant effort to break the Israeli blockade that has severely impacted the Palestinian population in Gaza.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations (MAPIM) CEO Datuk Dr Ahmad Sani Araby Al-Kahery announced that local celebrities Ardell Aryana and Zizi Kirana are part of the 15-member volunteer group from various non-governmental organizations. The mission is carrying food aid and medical supplies, aiming to unite global support to halt the Gaza conflict.

Ahmad Sani Araby highlighted that this mission is a continuation of efforts by MAPIM and Cinta Gaza Malaysia (CGM) through the Sumud Nusantara Convoy, under the patronage of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He noted that the second and third groups of volunteers are expected to embark on the same mission later this month.

The GSF involves participation from 50 countries, opting for the sea as a humanitarian route to Gaza due to comprehensive Israeli blockades by land, sea, and air. The blockade has exacerbated starvation, leading the United Nations to declare a famine.

The first group is set to sail from a Spanish port on August 31, with an expected arrival in Gaza waters within 17 days. Ahmad Sani Araby called for continued support from Malaysians to ensure the mission’s success.

CGM CEO Muhammad Nadir Al-Nuri Kamaruzaman has already traveled to Barcelona to coordinate preparations with the international committee ahead of the first group’s arrival. Ahmad Sani Araby assured that updates on the mission would be provided regularly, prioritizing volunteer safety.

International media recently reported that a large-scale civilian flotilla is set to sail to the Gaza Strip, with the second group departing from a Tunisian port on September 4.