Anwar warns US-Iran hostilities risk wider regional conflict, urges return to diplomacy

KUALA LUMPUR, September 2 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on the United States and Iran to cease further conflict and resume diplomatic talks following heightened tensions between the two nations. He cautioned that the escalating violence, which has spilled over to neighboring states, threatens to engulf the Middle East in a more severe confrontation.

In a Facebook update, Anwar emphasized that the nation with the most influence has a moral obligation to demonstrate restraint and avert additional escalation. "The sovereignty of other states cannot be disregarded. No military goal justifies putting civilians at risk amidst an escalating conflict," he stated. Anwar also warned against economic sanctions that could harm civilians and hinder diplomatic efforts, arguing that such measures only escalate the crisis.

He urged the US and Iran to immediately halt their military actions and return to diplomacy, urging the world to avoid bearing the burden of a broader regional war.