Malaysia won’t allow cargo aiding Israel’s military, says Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has firmly stated its refusal to permit the use of its territory for shipments that bolster Israel's military capabilities or contribute to the suffering of Palestinians, as declared by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister emphasized that the Malaysian government will rigorously inspect any shipment with suspicious origins and investigate thoroughly, implementing stringent measures if violations are confirmed.

Anwar's stance is unequivocal, asserting that Malaysia will not serve as a conduit for shipments supporting Israel's military prowess or its actions against Palestinians and other innocents. This stance was reiterated in a post on X, Malaysia's social media platform. Notably, Malaysia does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel and has consistently advocated for the creation of an independent Palestinian state, as well as the rights of the Palestinian people.

This position was highlighted after the Malaysian authorities seized three additional containers en route to Israel at the Port of Tanjung Pelepas in Johor. These containers were apprehended on August 19 while destined for the Ashdod Port, located south of Tel Aviv, and are currently under investigation at the port. The latest seizure follows a similar incident on August 7, where another container was detained at the same port due to suspicions that it contained weapons, given its intended destination.

The container was sent to Israeli defense technology company Elbit Systems Ltd. Anwar stressed that any shipment deemed suspicious will be subjected to inspection and investigation under Malaysian law. In the event that a violation is confirmed, Malaysia will take decisive action.