Indonesian journalists and volunteers in Gaza flotilla reported abducted by Israel
A group of Indonesian citizens, including at least two journalists from national media, who were part of a humanitarian aid flotilla to the Gaza Strip, have reportedly been abducted by Israeli forces during their voyage.
As reported by the Editor-in-Chief of Republika, Andi Muhyiddin, the group of Indonesians intercepted by Israel consists of nine volunteers, including journalists Bambang Noroyono and Thoudy Badai.
“We strongly condemn the interception carried out by the Israeli Zionist military against the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission in international waters,” said Andi, as quoted from an official statement on Monday. “Their safety is our serious concern.”
He explained that the Indonesian volunteers were sailing in a spirit of solidarity, carrying logistical aid, while the participating journalists were performing journalistic and humanitarian duties.
According to Andi, the actions taken by Israeli forces against the volunteers and journalists constitute a serious violation of international law, universal humanitarian principles, and the civil liberties of global citizens delivering aid to the Palestinian people in Gaza. “We stand with the world’s humanitarian volunteers, and we reject all forms of criminalisation of humanitarian missions in international waters,” he added.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been requested to provide information regarding the abduction of the Indonesian volunteers and journalists by Israeli forces.
Meanwhile, Republika also broadcast a video showing one of its journalists, Bambang Noroyono, who has been abducted by Israel. In the video uploaded to Instagram, Bambang, wearing a black jacket, is seen making a statement while holding up his Indonesian passport.
“If you find this video, please convey to the Government of the Republic of Indonesia that I am currently being held by the Israeli Zionist soldiers,” Bambang said in the video. “I request that the Government of the Republic of Indonesia free me from the abduction by the Israeli Zionist occupying soldiers.”
According to Republika, Israeli forces reportedly intercepted the flotilla fleet on Monday morning, Turkey time, in Cypriot waters approximately 200 nautical miles from Gaza. Bambang, along with his fellow journalists and other volunteers, was known to be aboard the ship ‘Boralize’ when intercepted by Israel.