Pakistans cricket star-tuned politician Imran Khan showered Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad with praises for defending the rights of Muslims.

A Bernama report today said Imran  who helms opposition party Tehrik-e-Insaf or Movement for Justice  called on Islamic countries to voice out against violation of the human rights of Muslims.

Mahathir and Saudi Arabias Prince Abdullah Abdul Aziz have championed the cause of Muslims, he told reporters in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) yesterday.

The debonair politician urged the two leaders to coordinate efforts to defend Muslims in Palestine and Chechnya.

Timid body

Imran also criticised the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) as a timid body, adding that the Muslim voice was not heard in the West because it was incoherent and disjointed.

The legendary fast bowler, who shot to stardom as captain of the Pakistani cricket team in the 80s, was also on the offensive against Israel.

He condemned Israeli action on Palestinians and claimed international laws continue to be defied due to the support from the strong Zionist lobby in the US.

"If there is a war against terrorism, then all forms of terrorism must be condemned. I am against the way the United States government is dealing with terrorism," stressed Imran.