Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's decision to expel Israeli nationals aligns with its steadfast policy of not recognizing Israel as a state, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated. He emphasized that the enforcement actions taken were consistent with the implementation of this policy, as he addressed reporters after inaugurating the Pasir Gudang UMNO division delegates meeting.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Khaled clarified that the expulsion was part of efforts to prevent Israeli nationals from being involved in the Network School. He reiterated, "Our policy has always been clear. We do not allow Israelis to enter the country." The minister's comments came in response to inquiries about the expulsion of Israeli nationals and the ensuing calls from members of the United States Congress to cease funding for the International Military Education and Training (IMET) programme for Malaysia.
Mohamed Khaled assured that Malaysia's strict adherence to its policy had not impacted funding under the IMET programme. He stated, "Our policy is simply that we do not recognise the State of Israel. If members of Congress want to make such demands, that is a matter between them and their government."
The recent actions by Malaysia have prompted eight US Congress members to urge their administration to reassess its security and economic ties with Malaysia. This followed reports of an Israeli national allegedly entering the country using a passport from another nation. In a letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, dated July 21, the lawmakers also suggested suspending IMET funding if Malaysia did not alter its stance within 15 days.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reinforced the government's position, stating that any Israeli national found in Malaysia would face expulsion, adhering to the country's enduring policy of not recognizing Israel. He further revealed that all security agencies were conducting an in-depth investigation into the allegations concerning Israeli nationals entering Malaysia in connection with the Network School issue in Forest City.