Outraged Malaysians step on Israeli flag to protest Gaza attacks

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians are beginning to show their rage against the Israeli regime by stepping on their flag for its attacks on Gaza that have killed thousands as the war between the two sides entered its third week. 

In Malacca, a newly wed couple laid two Israeli flags on the ground for them and the guests to step on during their wedding reception, in Kampung Umbai, Jasin here, Saturday. 

According to a news channel, Mohd Hilmi Muslim and Norfadhilah Mohd Baroldin chose to do so on their wedding day to show their displeasure towards the killings of innocent lives, especially the Palestinian civilians.

"This is the least we could do as Malaysians to show our rage against the Zionist regime who have killed thousands of innocent lives. The flags are only good to be stepped on," said Norfadhilah. 

The news channel also reported that more than 3,000 guests at the wedding also took the opportunity to step on the flags, which were later set on fire by the couple.

A news daily also reported on Friday that a Muslim congregation stepped on an Israeli flag after Friday prayers at Masjid Sembilang, Seberang Jaya Pulau Pinang as a sign of protest against the Zionist regime. 

A photo depicting an Israeli flag laid at the entrance believed to be placed on the ground at the main entrance of Sungai Petani bus terminal has also gone viral on Facebook.

However, their actions have attracted mixed reactions from netizens, which some supporting it and some describing it as inappropriate.

"This sort of action would only backfire on us. This is not how we should teach our kids. Instead of instilling hatred, why don't we pray for peace?" said one Facebook user.

Another Facebook user also raised her concern as such action could spark an outrage from the Israeli regime towards Malaysia.

On Saturday, thousands of Malaysians gathered at Dataran Merdeka to show their support for the Palestinians and condemn the violence in Gaza.

Some 1,655 Palestinians, mostly civilians, and 65 Israelis have died in the conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue the offensive in Gaza until "it restores security to its citizens".