In a move that’s more ‘nautical naughtiness’ than ‘maritime magnanimity’, Malaysia has decided to play captain in the troubled waters of international politics.
Malaysia makes bold move in Israel-Gaza war
The country’s latest decree? No Israeli-flagged ships or vessels en route to Israel will be welcomed at Malaysian ports. It’s as if Malaysia is saying, “Your ship can’t park here,” especially if it’s waving an Israeli flag or sailing towards the Middle Eastern nation.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, steering the ship of state, announced that Zim Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., an Israeli cargo company, along with any vessel hoisting the Israeli flag, is now persona non grata in Malaysian waters.
This decision, effective immediately, is a stark turnaround from Malaysia’s previous policy, which allowed Israeli ships to dock as of 2005.
The Malaysian government cites Israel’s actions in the Gaza war, accusing it of ignoring humanitarian principles and violating international laws, as the catalyst for this maritime moratorium.
This decision is not just a drop in the ocean; it’s a tidal wave of political statements, signalling Malaysia’s strong stance against Israel’s “ongoing massacre and brutality against Palestinians”.”
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As ships bound for Israel will also be barred from loading cargo in Malaysian ports, it seems Malaysia is not only closing its docks but also its deck to any maritime mingling with Israel.
This embargo extends to any ship that’s just Israel-curious, signalling a clear ‘no entry’ for any vessel with even a whiff of an Israeli connection.
This nautical nixing by Malaysia is not a solo sail; the country has also been vocal in international forums, opposing actions like the US veto of a UN resolution demanding a ceasefire in Palestine.
With about 60% of its population being Muslim, Malaysia has historically advocated for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and has consistently supported Palestinian causes, including donating millions of dollars in aid to Gaza.
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Globally, the reaction to Israel’s actions in the Gaza war has been a mosaic of condemnation, support, and neutrality.
The international community has been divided, with some countries decrying Israel’s military tactics as disproportionate and others defending its right to self-defence.
This ongoing conflict has sparked widespread debates about the ethical and legal dimensions of warfare, the plight of civilians in conflict zones, and the complex dynamics of Middle Eastern politics.