Dr M presses Anwar to bar Trump, calls him enabler of atrocities

Dr Mahathir Mohamad has called on his successor, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, to rescind the invitation extended to United States President Donald Trump to attend the Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

“I appeal to Anwar to revoke the invitation to Trump because he has openly enabled and supported the crimes against humanity being inflicted by Israel on the people of Palestine,” the former premier said in a video posted on social media.

Stressing that Malaysia cannot remain silent, Mahathir urged Anwar and his administration to take a firm and visible stand against the atrocities committed by Israel with the backing of the US.

“This is a profound moral obligation. We must demonstrate clearly and unequivocally to Israel and the US that, despite our size, Malaysia stands firmly and vocally against their injustice and oppression,” he added.

Mahathir highlighted the sacrifices of Malaysians who joined the Global Sumud Flotilla Mission to deliver aid to Palestinians, saying they risked their lives because they could not stand idly by while crimes against humanity unfolded.

“We, the people, urge the government to revoke the invitation to Trump to attend the Asean summit,” he said.

“… Even now, the US continues to supply Israel with funds, weapons, and military assistance to perpetuate the killing of Palestinians,” he added.

‘Blinded by ego’

On a related matter, former law minister Zaid Ibrahim questioned Anwar’s insistence on not rescinding the invitation to Trump, adding it would only bring shame to Asean and its 300 million-strong Muslim citizens.

Zaid opined that Anwar could be blinded by his ego, believing he could become an international leader by standing beside Trump.

“Very few people in this wide world feel proud to shake hands with the narcissistic Trump. Anwar is one of them.

“I hope other Malaysian leaders will do something to protest this visit and show solidarity with the Palestinians,” he said on Facebook today.

Anwar, who has consistently condemned Israel’s actions, confirmed that Trump is scheduled to be in Malaysia next month.

“Trump called to inform us that he will be visiting Malaysia next month to coincide with the 47th Asean Summit,” he said.

Anwar also revealed that Chinese Premier Li Qiang will attend the summit, while Russian President Vladimir Putin is “seriously considering” a visit.

On Sept 6, a coalition of 23 NGOs staged a protest in Kuala Lumpur against Trump’s planned visit.

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