Malaysia Extends Conditional Support for U.S. Middle East Peace Plan: PM Anwar
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14: Malaysia has expressed conditional support for the U.S.-proposed Middle East peace plan introduced by President Donald Trump, emphasizing that the initiative must guarantee the rights and sovereignty of the Palestinian people.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia would only endorse any international initiative if it recognized Palestine as a sovereign state and ensured an immediate end to Israeli aggression in Gaza.
“We agree to support President Trump’s initiative, but Malaysia is among the few nations doing so conditionally,” Anwar said in Parliament on Monday.
“Many countries have given full support, but our position is clear recognition of Palestine as an independent state, resolution of key issues such as the West Bank and refugee rights, and restoration of justice for Palestinians displaced from Gaza and other occupied territories.”
Anwar noted that while the 20-point peace proposal contained several positive elements, the core issues of illegal settlements and the right of return for Palestinian refugees must be addressed before Malaysia could give full endorsement.
He stressed that Malaysia’s conditional support was consistent with its long-standing foreign policy of defending Palestinian self-determination and opposing all forms of oppression by the Zionist regime.
The Prime Minister also revealed that Hamas had sent an official letter to Malaysia on October 7, expressing agreement to pursue peace talks based on principles of justice and Palestinian independence.
“The letter outlines Hamas’s commitment to safeguard the integrity of peace negotiations and to achieve a comprehensive settlement,” Anwar said.
“Their next stage is to discuss halting all forms of aggression, adhering to international law and global conventions, and ensuring humanitarian access for food, water, and medical aid.”
Anwar reiterated that Malaysia’s stance remains firm: peace can only be achieved when the rights, dignity, and independence of the Palestinian people are fully upheld.
— Voice of Malaysia News