Malaysia is once again calling for an immediate ceasefire following an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip that targeted a hospital, causing the deaths of numerous individuals.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim condemned Israel for their attack, describing it as ‘madness’ and excessive.
“This is why we are urging an immediate ceasefire to de-escalate the situation.
“If this continues, the victims will be mothers, children, and patients, and this has reached an inhumane level of madness,” he stated during a press conference at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) on Wednesday.
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qudra, more than 500 individuals were killed in the Israeli airstrike on the al-Ahli Baptist Hospital on Tuesday (Sept 17).
Footage revealed that bodies were scattered across the hospital grounds.
This airstrike occurred on the eleventh day of conflict, leading to an increasing number of non-governmental organizations and world leaders denouncing the Israeli bombing campaign that has targeted healthcare facilities, homes, and places of worship in the besieged enclave. They argue that these actions violate international law and may constitute war crimes.
Anwar also criticized Western countries for their hypocrisy in their stance on the Palestine situation.
“What is most regrettable is that Western countries, who frequently speak about human rights, actually categorize human rights differently.
“Some are classified as ‘Class 1,’ while others are treated as ‘slaves’,” Anwar added.
The Prime Minister disclosed that he will be traveling to Riyadh on Thursday (Oct 19) to participate in the Asean and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit, during which he is expected to discuss the Israel-Palestine conflict with other world leaders.
When asked about the status of Malaysian troops serving as peacekeepers under the United Nations (UN) in Lebanon, Anwar stated that any decisions regarding their withdrawal or continued presence will be made in collaboration with the United Nations.
“If we can ensure their safety, we will continue their presence, but if not, we will bring them back,” Anwar declared.
Tensions are also escalating on Israel’s border with Lebanon, raising concerns that the conflict could spread.
On Monday, Israel’s military and defense ministry announced the evacuation of 28 communities within a 2km radius of the Lebanese border.
The border has historically served as a launching point for attacks by Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed Lebanese group that has engaged in wars with Israel in the past.
