'You picked the wrong person to threaten,' PM hits back at international criticism over support for Palestine

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated that Malaysia has faced criticism and attacks from the international community due to its support for Palestine in the ongoing conflict with Israel. However, Anwar remains firm in his stand and asserts that Malaysia will continue to support Palestinians.

Despite being criticized and attacked by individuals from Europe, the United States, and Israel, Anwar remains resolute. During his speech at the Axiata Arena Stadium in Bukit Jalil, Anwar declared that as long as he receives the mandate from the people, he will not be deterred from speaking out.

Asserting Malaysia’s independence, Anwar emphasized that the country will decide what is right and stated, “Don’t even think of threatening us. Malaysia is a fiercely independent country. We decide what is right. We understand the meaning of freedom and we are with the Palestinians in their struggle.”

Anwar revealed that he has received numerous threats due to his support for Palestine but assured his critics that they “picked the wrong person.”

Having just returned from Cairo, Egypt, Anwar spoke about his meeting with various top Islamic leaders during his trip and stressed the significance of advocating for Palestine. He highlighted the importance of the Muslim world not appearing fatigued and urged them to rise up in defense of Palestine.

Anwar also discussed his conversations with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where he urged them to take a united stance against Israel and for Arab nations to lead the way in defending Palestinians.

Anwar criticized Western leaders for their tolerance of Israel’s aggression despite their claims of supporting democracy and human rights. He questioned the absence of justice, democratic ideals, and international voices condemning Israel’s actions.

Expressing a plea for basic human rights, Anwar emphasized that the goal is to treat Palestinians as human beings, providing them with necessities such as food, medicine, and the right to live for their children.

Other leaders who addressed the rally included Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, and Deputy Finance Minister Steven Sim. Mohamad Hasan condemned Israeli cruelty towards Palestinians, describing it as inhumane and highlighting the significance of the rally in affirming Malaysia’s stance on the conflict as a humanitarian crisis rather than a religious one.