Video of Anwar 'supporting' Israel on CNN was edited - minister

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said a viral video claiming Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim accepted Israel’s “right to exist and defend itself”, was edited by certain parties.

The government’s spokesperson said his team reviewed the video and confirmed that it had been altered.

“When we examined the entire (edited) video, I recognised the editing style and the nature of the edits made.

“The mistake here was when they edited the statement in a way that made it seem like the prime minister was posting condolences over the killing of (assassinated Hamas leader) Ismail (Haniyeh), which was then linked to anti-Hamas groups,” Fahmi said.

Earlier today, media reports highlighted that opposition leaders and pro-Palestinian activists expressed shock and disappointment over Anwar’s alleged stance, which appeared to accept Israel’s right to exist and defend itself - two claims frequently made by Western governments that support the Zionist regime.

The minister emphasised that in the full, unedited video, it was clear that Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to protecting Palestine and reiterated that Malaysia has never recognised Israel’s government.

He added that his ministry was aware of the individuals responsible for the edited video.

Fahmi has directed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to investigate the spread of the edited video on social media platforms.

“I want to emphasise that the government has no intention of stopping media partners from reporting, but we must be cautious in treating speculation as fact,” he continued.

“So, while we often issue reminders, if necessary, we will consider more stringent actions. I have instructed MCMC to investigate further.”

He also said, “The prime minister has made it clear that he is firm with the US secretary of state. Those who edit the video will never be happy with what we do, but it’s important that we know what we stand for - fighting for a better future for Palestine.”

Fahmi was speaking during a press briefing after a cabinet meeting in Putrajaya today.

He was responding to questions about a recently circulated clip of an interview with Anwar on CNN, hosted by British journalist Richard Quest.

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