In a powerful speech at the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit held in Riyadh on November 11, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called for immediate and decisive action against Israel. Addressing a gathering of leaders from Muslim-majority nations, Anwar highlighted the dire situation faced by Palestinian civilians and accused Israel of repeatedly breaking international laws. He urged the United Nations to impose sanctions on Israel and even consider its expulsion due to what he described as severe human rights abuses. His message was clear: the international community must act urgently to address what he characterized as a humanitarian crisis in Palestine.
Calls for Sanctions and Expulsion
Anwar’s speech centered around a call for the United Nations to take strong actions, including sanctions, against Israel. He argued that Israel’s actions had reached a level where it no longer aligns with international standards and that continued human rights violations have pushed Israel “beyond the pale of reason and humanity.” Anwar drew a historical parallel with South Africa, reminding listeners that the United Nations once suspended South Africa’s membership due to its apartheid policies. He suggested similar measures against Israel, proposing sanctions, embargoes, and even a suspension of its UN membership.
In addition to the call for UN sanctions, Anwar criticized Israel for targeting humanitarian efforts, specifically pointing to its recent ban on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This agency provides essential aid to Palestinian refugees, including food, medical care, and education. Anwar asserted that by obstructing UNRWA’s operations, Israel is hindering international efforts to support those in need in Gaza. He stressed that without immediate intervention, the humanitarian response in Gaza could collapse entirely, leaving thousands of families without basic supplies.
Malaysia’s UN Resolution Proposal
On November 4, Anwar informed Malaysia’s parliament, known as the Dewan Rakyat, that his government had drafted a resolution proposing measures against Israel if it continues violating international laws concerning Palestine. The resolution, set to be presented soon at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), includes the possibility of removing Israel from the UN. Anwar’s proposal is not just limited to sanctions; he also seeks to safeguard the operations of humanitarian agencies like UNRWA by obtaining legal backing from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Malaysia has joined forces with other nations in an effort to secure an Advisory Opinion from the ICJ. This opinion could clarify Israel’s obligations and reinforce the authority of humanitarian organizations working in Palestine. The goal, Anwar explained, is to ensure that UNRWA can continue providing vital services such as healthcare and schooling for over six million Palestinian refugees across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Anwar shared that UNRWA’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini praised Malaysia’s contributions and welcomed greater collaboration to keep essential aid flowing.
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Reports of Civilian Suffering in Gaza
Anwar’s speech came amidst reports documenting extensive civilian suffering and potential war crimes in Gaza. A report from the United Nations Human Rights Office released on November 8 revealed that over the past six months, nearly 70% of civilian casualties in Gaza were women and children. According to the UN, Israel’s use of wide-area weapons in densely populated regions has led to an alarming number of non-combatant deaths. Out of 8,119 verified deaths in Gaza, approximately 44% were children and 26% were women, with the majority of these fatalities occurring in residential areas.
The UN’s findings, based on records from the Gaza health ministry, indicate that around 43,300 individuals have been killed in Gaza over the past year. Many more are believed to be buried under rubble due to the extensive destruction caused by military attacks. The report highlighted that the ages most affected by the violence are between five and nine years old, highlighting the devastating impact on children.
In response to this crisis, Anwar condemned Israel’s formal decision to cut ties with UNRWA, accusing it of deepening the humanitarian crisis. This decision, approved by Israel’s parliament, prohibits UNRWA from operating in Israel and occupied East Jerusalem. Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, claimed that the agency was linked to militant activities, but critics argue that banning UNRWA will only worsen the conditions in Gaza, where approximately 30 aid trucks enter daily—far short of the needed supplies.
Anwar expressed grave concern over this restriction, warning that it would obstruct much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza. He called on world leaders to act swiftly to prevent a total breakdown of relief efforts, emphasizing the importance of continued support for Palestinian families affected by the conflict. The Malaysian Prime Minister concluded by urging fellow leaders to prioritize peace and the welfare of Palestinian victims, hoping that this summit would serve as a unifying moment to rally behind those in need.
