FOLLOWING the ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, Malaysia’s Special Envoy to the Middle East Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang urged Russia and China to mediate peace between the warring nations.
“We should not entertain the US in the peace process because clearly, it takes Israel’s side at all times. Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, Arab Saudi, Egypt, Iran and Turkey must make a stand on this too.
“The US keeps supplying weapons to Israel and treats Palestine as a terrorist nation. So, it’s best for us Muslim nations to step up the pressure,” he said, in an interview with Bernama and published on Harakah Daily.
Recently, Hadi criticised Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern nation for normalising ties with Israel, alleging them of suppressing local discontent over the move.
He also lashed out at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for dragging its feet on helping Palestine, calling the body more of a “club to conduct forums”.
It is unclear how the Marang MP’s criticism against Saudi Arabia would affect bilateral ties, as the latter decides on the yearly quota for Hajj pilgrimage of any nations.
On that note, Hadi said it was upsetting that Palestine was getting bullied by Israel and other powers despite being recognised as a sovereign nation, with membership at the United Nation’s General Assembly and consulates established worldwide.
“Palestine also conducts election but often blocked, with Hamas categorised as a terror outfit by the US. In fact, the US continues to block any resolutions made by the UN against Israel.
“The last insult was by former US president Donald Trump, who unilaterally announced that Jerusalem belongs to Israel, breaching the ‘two-state solution’ plan.
“Under the initial plan, East Jerusalem was supposed to become Palestine’s capital,” he stated.
On the recent conflict, Hadi said that Israel started the fight by assaulting Muslims congregated at the al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan.
“’The fanatics from Israel attacked Muslims during a holy month. This triggered Palestinian anger, both Muslims and Christians,” he remarked. – May 23, 2021.
