Despite heavy rain, hundreds of Malaysians turned up outside the United States Embassy in Kuala Lumpur today (Oct 3) to demand the release of humanitarian activists detained by Israel.
What sparked the protest
Israel had recently intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a mission that was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza.
More than 100 volunteers were arrested in the operation — including 23 Malaysians.
The incident drew global attention and anger, especially in Malaysia.
Protest near US Embassy
A crowd first gathered outside the US Embassy yesterday (Oct 2).
Even after clashes that left some police injured, protesters showed up again today, holding Palestinian flags and banners while chanting slogans.
They said the US, as Israel’s ally, should take responsibility and push for the release of the detained activists.
Police step up security
After yesterday’s scuffles, police deployed hundreds of officers, including the Federal Reserve Unit (FRU), to secure the embassy area and prevent the protest from escalating, according to Sin Chew Daily.
Barricades were set up near the embassy gates to block large groups from entering.
Speaking to WeirdKaya, a WeirdKaya reader who passed by the US Embassy around 2.30pm said traffic in the area was heavily congested.
The reader added they were stuck in a jam for around 30 minutes, even though the protest remained largely peaceful.
