Malaysia has called upon Israel not to take any drastic action that would harm the humanitarian activists on board the cargo vessel Rachel Corrie, Xinhua reported.
Malaysian Foreign Affairs Minister Anifah Aman said in a statement issued here late Thursday that the Israeli authorities should ensure a safe passage for the vessel to Gaza to deliver the humanitarian cargo.
A total of 18 Malaysians were on board the humanitarian aid ships to Gaza when the one of the vessel Mavi Marmara carrying twelve Malaysians was attacked by Israeli commandos in the international waters early Monday.
Anifah said that there was no reason for Israel to suspect that the Rachel Corrie would pose any security threat as those onboard comprised of members of non-government organizations, members of parliament and journalists.
Every single item on board the vessel such as educational materials, toys and construction materials had been inspected in Ireland, stressed Anifah.
There are six Malaysians on board the Rachel Corrie.
Anifah said that any Israeli military action on an unarmed vessel transporting civilians and humanitarian assistance would deepen the international community's negative perception of Israel.
He also said that such action would demonstrate Israel's total indifference to its international obligations in defiance to world opinion.
"The international community should not allow such violence and impunity to happen without any appropriate response.
"Israel should engage in peaceful dialogue under the ambit of the Middle East Peace Process in efforts to promote lasting peace and security in the region," said Anifah.