Malaysia backs US proposal of ceasefire in Palestine, says PM

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia supports the ceasefire initiative proposed by US President Joe Biden in collaboration with Qatar and Egypt, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said this matter was discussed in the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday morning (June 5) and that the initiative is a reasonable proposition aimed at securing an immediate ceasefire and, hopefully, paving the way for permanent peace and an amicable resolution to the decades-long conflict in the region.

“What’s important is to stop the continued aggression and colonisation of Palestinian territories.

“And I believe, based on my initial discussion with Hamas leaders, they seem to be more supportive of the idea to secure permanent peace,” he told the media after the event in Putrajaya.

Anwar also called on the international community, particularly the United States, to remain firm in its stance against Israel’s stubbornness and arrogance.

He stressed that the ongoing violence and suffering must end for the sake of peace and stability in the region.

“The Malaysian government is concerned. This is probably the firmest position taken by the United States and should be supported by all parties,” he added.

Recently, President Joe Biden has called on Hamas to accept a new Israeli proposal aimed at terminating the ongoing conflict in Gaza, asserting that “it’s time for this war to end.”

The comprehensive three-part proposal starts with a six-week ceasefire during which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would withdraw from Gaza’s populated areas.

This initial phase aims to create a stable environment conducive to peace.

The second component involves a substantial surge in humanitarian aid to Gaza, ensuring that essential goods and medical supplies reach those most in need.

This phase also includes the exchange of hostages held by both sides, with the release of some Palestinian prisoners as a gesture of goodwill.

The final aspect of the proposal seeks to establish a permanent cessation of hostilities, followed by a significant reconstruction plan for Gaza aimed at rebuilding the region’s infrastructure and improving living conditions for its residents.

Hamas has responded positively to the proposal, indicating a potential openness to discussions.