PM Anwar Ibrahim slams critics of Malaysia’s Gaza aid, citing humanitarian grounds and ongoing Israeli violations of ceasefire agreements
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has condemned criticism of Malaysia’s humanitarian assistance to Gaza as lacking in humanitarian values.
Anwar said Malaysia has channelled about RM100 million in aid to Gaza over the past two to three years, even during US-led peace initiatives.
He stated the assistance was provided on humanitarian grounds due to continuous Israeli violations of ceasefire agreements and crimes against Palestinians.
“Continuous violations, hundreds of breaches of agreements have been carried out by the Israeli regime,” he told editors-in-chief of local and international media.
“Small children and women continue to be killed… most mosques and churches have also been destroyed.”
Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to support Gaza through both humanitarian aid and political advocacy for Palestinian rights.
He recounted explaining Malaysia’s position to former US President Donald Trump during a car ride in late October.
“I told (Trump) why I chose to defend the rights of Gaza and Palestine and why we have remained so consistent in our support,” Anwar said.
“He did not get angry.”
The Prime Minister expressed difficulty understanding critics who raise religious and human issues yet lack compassion.
Anwar noted an invitation from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to attend a Gaza reconstruction summit.
He said the meeting has not yet occurred due to difficulties assembling Arab and Islamic leaders late in the year. – Bernama
