Malaysian premier speaks to Palestinian president, condemns Israeli attacks

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA (AA) – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Friday spoke to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and discussed the latest situation in Gaza.

The phone call came after Ibrahim spoke with Ismail Haniyeh, the political bureau chief of the Palestinian resistance group Hamas on Tuesday.

“We both agreed that there is a need for thorough efforts to stop any form of violence that is happening now. We also hope that all parties can work to ensure that humanitarian aid is channeled immediately to the Palestinian people,” Ibrahim said on X.

The Palestinian president also briefed the Malaysian leader on the recent attacks carried out by Israeli forces, including the killing of over 500 people in a hospital attack.

“During this conversation, I also received a briefing regarding the attacks carried out by the Zionist regime on civilians, and we both strongly condemn such actions,” he added.

The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

At least 4,137 Palestinians have been killed and 13,000 others injured in Israeli attacks on Gaza.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid