Malaysia Questions Netanyahu's Intentions On The Sustainability Of Ceasefire In Gaza

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. (Facebook Anwar Ibrahim)

JAKARTA - Malaysian Prime Minister (PM) Anwar Ibrahim warned that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza must last, not just a war gap.

"Malaysia has voiced peace wherever we can," Anwar said in his speech entitled "Southraising in forming a New International Order" at the Kuala Lumpur Conference, Malaysia, Tuesday, October 14, quoted from Bernama.

Anwar reiterated Malaysia's support for the 20-point Gaza peace proposal proposed by United States (US) President Donald Trump.

However, Anwar noted that the current Gaza peace plan is still not comprehensive, because there is no guarantee of full rights for the Palestinian population. Including the absence of a firm commitment to establish an independent Palestinian state.

"Now, with the latest fragile ceasefire in Sharm El Sheikh, we are monitoring its progress every minute," he continued.

Anwar said Malaysia, together with South Africa, Bolivia, and Brazil, fully support the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which has entered the first phase of releasing each other's hostages.

However, he stressed that it should lead to the rebuilding of Gaza, restoration of dignity, and recognition of the Palestinian right to live freely on their own land.

Anwar also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, saying that the government showed no intention of respecting peace commitments.

He warned the world should not allow Gaza to enter a cycle of destruction and other despairs. He stressed that leadership must turn moral anger into a sustainable act.

Morality and power are never easy to reconcile, but both of them have to live side by side if order wants to be sustainable. Without moral anger, there will be no justice. However, leadership must ensure that moral belief becomes a policy, and compassion turns into a sustainable action," said Anwar.

Furthermore, Anwar stated that the tragedy that had taken place in Gaza as a result of Zionist atrocities reflected a more profound global crisis, adding that silence was no longer an option for Malaysia.

In addition to the RM100 million humanitarian aid promised to Gaza, Malaysia is also working with Japan, as well as other East Asian and Middle Eastern partners, to mobilize additional support for the Palestinian people.