PETALING JAYA – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has strongly condemned the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, calling it a despicable murder aimed at stalling ongoing truce talks in the Gaza conflict, which has been ongoing since last year. Datuk Seri Anwar denounced the killing of Haniyeh, who served as the chairman of Hamas’ political bureau, in a statement on Facebook on July 31.
“This was a murder of the most heinous kind, plainly designed to derail ongoing talks aimed at ending the carnage in Gaza that has claimed over 40,000 lives,” Anwar stated. “It is patently clear that this could only have been carried out in an environment of utter impunity. Only the heedless and unconscionable will not see the need to intensify pressure on Israel to stop their murderous rampage.”
Anwar expressed deep concern about the impact of the assassination on Palestinians, who have endured decades of suffering. He defended his past meetings with Haniyeh, emphasizing Haniyeh’s commitment to a peaceful Middle East and a restored Palestinian nation. “Detractors who have criticised me for meeting Ismail in the past, fail to appreciate his profound desire for a peaceful Middle East and a Palestinian nation restored to its rightful dignity. I mourn the loss of a dear friend and a valiant advocate for his people. Al-Fatihah,” he said.
Hamas reported that Israel attacked Haniyeh’s residence in Tehran, Iran. He was in Tehran to attend the inauguration of the new Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian on July 30. Malaysian Parliament Speaker Johari Abdul, who represented Malaysia at the ceremony, and other members of the Malaysian delegation in Tehran were confirmed safe by Malaysia’s foreign ministry.
“Malaysia unequivocally condemns all acts of violence, including targeted assassination, and urges all peace-loving nations to join in denouncing such acts,” the ministry stated. It added that the assassination underscores the need for de-escalation and the importance of constructive dialogue and peaceful resolutions.