PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has welcomed the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, voicing hope that it will pave the way for a lasting resolution to the region’s challenges, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic).
The Prime Minister said the 10-point proposal plan augurs well for the restoration of peace and stability, not only to the region but also to the rest of the world.
“It is earnestly hoped that the negotiation process will be conducted in good faith, with a firm resolve to seek a lasting resolution to the issues currently facing the region,” he said in a statement yesterday.
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced a two-week suspension of military operations against Iran following mediation efforts brokered by Pakistan.
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Supreme National Security Council declared that Teheran would cease defensive operations if attacks on the country cease.
According to reports, negotiations between the involved parties are expected to take place in Islamabad on Friday.
Tensions had increased earlier on Tuesday as the deadline inched closer – and after Trump himself posted a menacing message on social media.
“A whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again,” Trump had written.
“I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will,” he added.
Anwar said any peace talks cannot succeed if the proceedings are cloaked in deception and double-dealing.
“It is imperative that the 10-point plan be translated into a comprehensive peace deal, not just for Iran, but also for Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen.
“Further, it is incumbent upon the parties concerned to ensure the end of the genocide and dispossession of the people of Palestine, not least in Gaza,” he added.
Anwar also extended his deep appreciation and congratulated Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the tireless diplomacy that helped bring this moment about.
“Pakistan’s willingness to speak to all sides, without fear or favour, reflects the highest traditions of Muslim solidarity and international responsibility.
“Malaysia stands ready to support and complement all efforts in this regard,” he said.
Malaysia also called on the international community to ensure unimpeded humanitarian access to all civilian populations affected by this war.
“Let this be a turning point towards lasting peace. The world cannot afford for it to be anything less,” said the Prime Minister.
Shehbaz said yesterday that the US, Iran and their allies had agreed to a ceasefire “everywhere”, including Lebanon, following mediation by his government to stop weeks of fighting.
“I am pleased to announce that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, along with their allies, have agreed to an immediate ceasefire everywhere including Lebanon and elsewhere, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY,” Shehbaz posted on X.
Escalating military operations between the US, Israel and Iran which erupted on Feb 28 after Washington and Tel Aviv launched attacks on Iran, have pushed the Middle East into a broader conflict, disrupting global markets and aviation, as well as causing far-reaching economic consequences.
