Riyaz ul Khaliq
16 October 2023•Update: 16 October 2023
By Riyaz ul Khaliq
ISTANBUL (AA) - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Monday said the deployment of peacekeeping forces in Palestine would need “consensus” among the “neighboring nations.”
“Certain parties in Malaysia claim that we refuse to send our military forces,” Anwar told the Malaysian parliament, according to a transcript of his speech released on state-run Bernama News.
“Our military leaders have also asked me to explain that it is not fair for any quarters to touch on this matter,” Anwar said.
He added: “Without the consensus, aircraft carrying Malaysian peacekeepers or humanitarian assistance will not be allowed to land.”
"This is not a simple decision to make. So, I hope there will be better understanding... don't confuse the people," said Anwar, calling for prayers for suffering Palestinians.
Ten days into the conflict with Palestinian group Hamas, Israeli bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip has continued, with over 1 million people – almost half the total population of Gaza – having been displaced.
Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis with no electricity, and water, food, fuel and medical supplies are running out, as civilians flee to the south following Israeli warning to evacuate northern areas.
The fighting began when Hamas on Oct. 7 initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack including a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel via land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and increased settler violence.
The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets within the Gaza Strip.
The number of Palestinians killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza has risen to 2,750, including 750 children.
In Israel, 1,300 have been killed.
