ISTANBUL 

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Monday urged an end to the diplomatic and trade ties with Israel, seeking support for the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla.

Addressing an Arab-Islamic summit in Doha, Anwar condemned in “strongest and most unequivocal terms” the recent Israeli airstrikes on Qatar’s capital Doha, describing the attack as “reckless provocation” that endangers the security of the region.

“Gaza continues to be crushed before our very eyes. Its people have endured decimation and devastation without precedent: families wiped out, hospitals reduced to ruins, children buried under rubble,” Anwar said.

“Israel has declared that there will never be a Palestinian state. Let us be clear: this is a declaration of permanent apartheid,” he said, calling this a “repudiation” of every UN resolution and the right of self-determination.

Anwar called for support for the Gaza-bound Sumud Flotilla, saying: “It is a mission of mercy, and we must do all in our power to see that it reaches its shore.”

“Condemnations will not stop the missiles. Declarations will not free Palestine. Severe punitive actions must be put in place. Diplomatic engagements must cease, and so must trade relations,” he added.