Dubai: Gulf News reporter Abbas Al Lawati made his first phone call since the Israeli attack on a Gaza aid convoy, according to his brother Mohammad who visited Gulf News office on Monday night.
"I'm fine. Tell mama, baba I'm okay ," Abbas told his brother Mohammad over the phone. He told his brother he was in Israel. The line got cut soon after.
Messages of hope and goodwill have poured in for the Gulf News reporter, who was aboard the Mavi Marmara when it was attacked by Israeli forces on Monday.
Read special coverage of Freedom Flotilla
Gulf News statement on the Israeli attack
Abbas is very passionate about the Palestinian cause, according to Manal Alafrangi, Opinion Editor.
"Abbas' constant passion for the Palestinian cause continues to be inspiring to his colleagues. Not only is he knowledgeable of the Middle East conflict, he constantly engages in reading and educating himself and is always open to ideas and new writers," Alafrangi said.
Nadia Mankani — one of Abbas' cousins — sent a message to him from London through Gulf News: "Abbas, we are all thinking about you and praying for you. I know that you are safe wherever you are, and that you'll be home soon. Hang in there, and be proud of what you've done".
Emmanuelle Landais, Staff Reporter and friend of Abbas, said: "I'm sure he's fine and I'm looking forward to his return. He's great to work with".
Abbas' earlier contact with UAE Editor Meher Murshed was via email late on Sunday night. "I hope kosher food tastes good!" he joked.
Friends and family have set up a dedicated Facebook group, where people can post updates, prayers and messages.
Hussam Abdullah wrote on the wall: "Hope you are OK!! Our prayers are with you, may Allah bring you back safe to your family and friends".
Although some don't know Al Lawati personally, some Omani Facebook users have also posted messages: "I don't know you but you made us Omanis proud ... May Allah Protect You".
Abbas is reporting on the Freedom Flotilla and has been constantly sending blog updates to gulfnews.com.
His last update reads: "There were reports of helicopters flying overhead a little while ago, but it turns out it was a false alarm. There was, however, a flashing light hovering above one of the challenger ships. It could be a helicopter, possibly commandos. The Mavi Marmara is massive so I doubt commandos will approach us but both Challengers are just small passenger boats".
Abbas last updated his Facebook status at 11.30pm on Sunday. "Heading towards Gaza's territorial waters. Expect Israeli confrontation in a couple of hours. Internet access expected to be disrupted."
