17-10-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim made it clear on Monday (Oct 16) that Malaysia refuses to bow to Western pressure to condemn Palestinian militant group Hamas. This statement comes amid widespread outrage over the recent deadly attack on southern Israel.
Anwar revealed that Western and European countries have repeatedly urged Malaysia to denounce Hamas during various meetings. However, he declined to provide specific details regarding these requests.
“As a matter of policy, we have maintained a relationship with Hamas since the past, and we will continue to do so,” Anwar declared during a parliamentary session.
He further expressed his disagreement with the pressuring tactics employed by Western nations, highlighting the fact that Hamas came to power in Gaza through free and fair elections, with the Gazans themselves choosing them to lead.
Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country, has long been a staunch advocate of the Palestinian cause and has consistently supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Furthermore, Malaysia does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel.
Over the years, top Hamas leaders have frequently visited Malaysia, engaging in discussions with its prime ministers. In 2013, former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak defied Israel’s blockade on Gaza by crossing into the Palestinian enclave, accepting an invitation from Hamas.
