Kuala lumpur: Malaysia has never recognised Israel and remains steadfast in defending the nation's sovereignty against any form of threat or foreign interference, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said. He emphasized the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) fully supports Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's firm stance in upholding the country's foreign policy, which is based on sovereignty, the principles of international law, and humanitarian values.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Prime Minister's position aligns with Malaysia's unwavering support for the oppressed Palestinian people. Dr Zulkifli stated that Malaysia has never recognised the illegal Israeli entity, has no diplomatic relations with it, and sees no necessity to do so. He highlighted the importance of maintaining an independent, non-aligned, and principled foreign policy, advocating for friendly relations with all sovereign nations while being vocal against violations of human rights and international law.

Dr Zulkifli addressed a letter from eight United States members of Congress urging US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to act on baseless allegations, describing it as foreign interference that challenges Malaysia's sovereignty. He stressed that Malaysians stand firmly behind the Prime Minister's leadership and commitment to universal human rights. The nation remains united in defending its dignity, freedom, and sovereignty against any form of threat or foreign interference.

Earlier today, the Prime Minister reaffirmed that Malaysia would continue to bar Israeli citizens from entering the country, despite objections raised by eight US members of Congress. Anwar Ibrahim stated that the position is based on defending people's rights and opposing the oppression, suppression, and continued killings of Palestinians in Gaza. The eight members of the US Congress, who expressed their dissatisfaction with Anwar's stance, are Greg Landsman, Josh Gottheimer, Jimmy Panetta, Dan Goldman, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Jared Moskowitz, Brad Sherman, and Jake Auchincloss.