PUTRAJAYA, Oct 27 — Malaysia is optimistic the resolution at the United Nations General Assembly’s (UNGA) Emergency Special Session to immediately halt the attacks by the Israeli regime and expedite the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip will receive support.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir said this is in light of the number of countries participating in the special session, which he hopes will conclude with a positive decision, to urge Israel to stop the indiscriminate attacks in Gaza which have killed thousands.
He has instructed Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), Datuk Ahmad Faisal Muhamad, to convey its position, as over 100 countries have expressed their willingness to participate.
“We hope in the end, the countries involved will provide strong support based on the Jordan Resolution, including stopping the indiscriminate attacks (in Gaza) and expediting the delivery of humanitarian aid,” Zambry told the press after launching the Public Service Contribution Campaign to Palestine at the Foreign Ministry today.
When asked about the next course of action if the decision does not materialise, he said there is no need for disappointment as efforts will continue through alternative approaches to maintain pressure on the Israeli regime.
Israel’s claim of the right to self-defence cannot be accepted as it does not follow international law, and Palestine’s situation differs due to the number of victims caused by Israel’s attacks.
“At the same time, (there are) actions attempting to deafen ears and blind the eyes of major powers to the atrocities committed beyond the boundaries of humanity and international law. We need to continue pressing, and Malaysia will continue to play a role alongside like-minded countries in this effort,” Zambry said.
On the willingness of Malaysian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to send humanitarian aid to Palestine, the minister said the government does not prevent any party from doing so, but any contributions are best channelled through Wisma Putra.
This is because Egypt’s Red Crescent Society chief executive officer, responsible for the aid delivery process, has cited difficulties in delivery. Currently, only 15 and 20 trucks are allowed, even though Palestine requires at least 200 trucks of aid daily.
Zambry said Malaysia is prepared to send 50 tonnes of humanitarian aid, which will be carried out as soon as permission is granted, as the airport in El Arish, Egypt, is still congested.
Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to the UN also said the UN has requested it send fuel and gloves, which are urgently needed at this time.
“These urgently needed items are being processed to be sent over as soon as possible,” he said.
— Bernama
