Anwar to Rally ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit for Support
City, Date – Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, is set to depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow. While the visit was originally planned to attend the summit between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Gulf Cooperation Council, it now takes on a significant diplomatic role in the face of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Emerging Global Concerns
The global community’s response to the conflict in Gaza, triggered by the recent incursion by militant group Hamas into southern Israel, has been polarized. This incursion resulted in the loss of over a thousand lives, prompting a swift retaliation from the Israeli Defense Force, which has led to the deaths of hundreds of Palestinian civilians. This escalation has elicited strong reactions, particularly in the Muslim world.
Malaysia’s Role in Advocating Peace
Anwar, who addressed Malaysia’s Parliament during a special session on the Gaza crisis, has vowed to discuss the issue with influential nations, including the UAE, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. The Prime Minister expressed his commitment to finding an immediate resolution to the conflict, stating, “Nevertheless, something must be done immediately.”
In his parliamentary address, Anwar, draped in a Palestinian scarf, conveyed his government’s determination not to yield to Western pressure to denounce Hamas. Anwar stated, “We have a longstanding relationship with Hamas and will continue to maintain it. We believe that the Gaza population’s democratic choice must be respected as well.”
Anwar went on to share that Malaysia would reach out to its allies in the Middle East to advocate for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution. He underscored the importance of prioritizing the well-being and safety of all individuals affected by the crisis and urged Israel to cease its use of force and commit to peaceful negotiations.
Malaysia’s Unwavering Support
Anwar’s stance aligns with Malaysia’s long-held position of unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. The country has consistently refused to establish diplomatic relations with Israel and has shown solidarity with the Palestinian people. Recent developments have reignited anti-Israel sentiments, prompting rallies and special prayers for Gaza in mosques across the nation.
Furthermore, Malaysia has withdrawn its participation from this year’s Frankfurt Book Fair, accusing the organizers of taking a pro-Israel stance. TheVibes.com, a Malaysian news outlet, lauded Anwar’s advocacy, emphasizing Malaysia’s steadfast commitment to justice, self-determination, and human rights.
Influence of Malaysia’s Stance
While some Western nations have shown support for Israel, Malaysia, along with fellow Muslim-majority nations Indonesia and Brunei, has become an essential source of support for the Palestinian cause. The commitment of these nations to the Palestinian cause reflects the strong support for justice and self-determination among their Muslim-majority populations.
Anwar’s visit to Saudi Arabia takes on renewed significance in the context of the ongoing crisis in Gaza, and his discussions with key regional leaders are expected to be a step towards finding a peaceful resolution.
For further updates on Malaysia’s diplomatic efforts in the Gaza crisis, stay tuned.
