JAKARTA: Indonesia and Malaysia, long-standing supporters of Palestine, have jointly urged an immediate ceasefire in Gaza amidst ongoing Israeli brutalities against innocent Palestinians. Both countries demanded the establishment of humanitarian corridors to ensure aid to Palestinians facing the Israeli military’s barbaric actions since October 7.
Both countries made the call during a meeting of Southeast Asian defense ministers in Jakarta on Wednesday. Both nations expressed concern over the deteriorating conditions in Gaza amidst Israel’s ongoing military operations.
Indonesia and Malaysia, having no diplomatic relations with Israel, have consistently advocated for an end to the occupation of Palestinian territories. Tens of thousands of Indonesians and Malaysians have taken to the streets in various cities to demonstrate solidarity with Palestine since the onset of Israel’s deadly onslaught on Gaza last month.
In his opening remarks at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting, Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto expressed deep sadness over the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. He stated, “Indonesia’s stance is very clear and firm. We push, and we call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the immediate setting up of corridors for humanitarian assistance. The violence against the civilian population must stop.”
Malaysia Condemns Israeli Bombing of Civilian Homes in Gaza
Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamad Hasan, in his speech, condemned the Israeli bombing of civilian homes and hospitals, highlighting the tragic consequences on innocent lives. He reiterated Malaysia’s call for an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access, and the rejection of any attempts to forcefully displace the Palestinian people.
Since October 7, Israel has cut off vital supplies to the Palestinian enclave and targeted essential infrastructure. Hasan reaffirmed Malaysia’s principled position, stating, “Malaysia reaffirms its principled position that the Palestinians deserve their own independent and sovereign state, based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
The joint plea from Indonesia and Malaysia comes amid escalating tensions and a growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
