Two Republika Journalists Detained by Israel During Global Sumud Flotilla Mission

Republika has confirmed that two of its journalists were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission convoy. Both were present to provide journalistic coverage of the mission.

“The convoy included nine volunteers from Indonesia, including two Republika journalists, Bambang Noroyono and Thoudy Badai, who were performing both journalistic and humanitarian duties. Their safety is a serious concern for us,” stated the Editor-in-Chief of Republika, Andi Muhyiddin, in a statement on Monday (18/05/2026).

Republika has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s actions, asserting that the interception constitutes a serious violation of international law.

“We strongly condemn the interception carried out by the Zionist Israeli military against the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission in international waters. This action is a serious violation of international law, universal humanitarian principles, and the civil liberties of global citizens delivering aid to the Palestinian people in Gaza,” he said.

Bambang Noroyono and photographer Thoudy Badai were part of the humanitarian group aboard a vessel carrying logistics and medical supplies for Palestinian civilians.

“The volunteers arrived not carrying weapons, but solidarity, medicines, logistical aid, and the voice of the world’s conscience for the Palestinian civilians who have faced months of blockade, famine, and relentless aggression,” he added.

Replika reaffirmed its support for the volunteers and rejected any form of criminalisation. “We stand with the world’s humanitarian volunteers. We reject all forms of criminalisation against humanitarian missions in international waters,” the statement concluded.