Opposition MP supports Anwar's motion to expel Israel from UN

PARLIAMENT | An opposition lawmaker has voiced support for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s effort to submit a motion to expel Israel from the United Nations (UN).

Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas) stated that this is a necessary step for Anwar to more firmly assert his stance towards Israel’s right to exist, following his remarks in a recent CNN interview which sparked controversy.

“We support the government’s efforts, particularly those of the prime minister, who today has submitted a motion to expel the illegal state of Israel from the UN.

“This is a very bold move, in my view, for a small and relatively minor country like ours to take a stand like this, declaring to the world that we hold such a position, which is something we can be proud of,” he said while debating the Supply Bill 2025 at the committee stage in the Dewan Rakyat today.

However, Fadhli (above) raised concerns that the prime minister’s comments during the CNN interview with Richard Quest appeared to contradict the government’s stance.

He said it was inconsistent for the Tambun MP to express “support” for Israel’s right to self-defence.

In the CNN interview, Anwar was asked by the host: “Does Israel have the right to exist and defend itself?”

Anwar briefly responded, “Yes,” which the opposition MP viewed as conflicting with Malaysia’s official stance.

“With just these words, I find it very confusing. It could be due to the journalist’s provocation at the time.

“But under the current circumstances, Israel has absolutely no right to exist in this world today,” Fadhli added.

Statement could be manipulated

The same issue was also raised by Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh (Harapan-Ledang), concerning Anwar’s statement in the CNN interview.

Syed Ibrahim expressed concern that the prime minister’s statement could be manipulated to make it appear as if the government is inconsistent in its support for Palestine.

“I also want to express regret, confusion, and disappointment over the prime minister’s statement during his CNN interview yesterday.

“When the journalist asked whether Israel has the right to exist and defend itself, the PM replied, ‘Yes,’ I worry that this statement could be manipulated.

“People might see us as lacking consistency in condemning Israel’s atrocities while simultaneously fighting for the absolute independence of Palestine,” he said.

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