KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry is prepared to execute any government directive regarding the mission to repatriate Malaysians from Iran following the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, stated that such matters are typically handled by the Foreign Affairs Ministry, including considering security aspects and suitable methods, given that not all aircraft can enter Iran's airspace.
"We have not yet received instructions on the matter, which is usually managed by Wisma Putra, and how to proceed... I believe they are considering it.
"I said it might not yet involve the Defence Ministry. For now, we are ready to accept any instructions from the government once a decision is made," he told reporters after officiating the 59th Armed Forces Cooperative annual general meeting at Wisma Perwira ATM here Thursday (June 19).
Mohamed Khaled said that the use of military assets for such missions might not necessarily be the primary choice, as it could lead to misinterpretations regarding the presence of Malaysian troops.
"In this context, it's better for military aircraft not to enter because people might think the military is coming to help," he said.
On Wednesday (June 18), Madani government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil reportedly said that the process of evacuating Malaysians in Iran is expected to be carried out this Friday (June 20).
Fahmi, who is also Communications Minister, said that among the preparations being made is the provision of travel visas.
The conflict between Iran and Israel escalated on June 13 following an unprovoked air strike by the Zionist regime on Iranian territory, and in retaliation, Iran launched ballistic missiles at several locations in Israel.
Previously, Wisma Putra urged all Malaysians in Iran to leave the country immediately due to the uncertain situation and the risk of it worsening without any prior warning.
Meanwhile, commenting on the safety of the Malaysian Peacekeeping Force (MalBatt) personnel in Lebanon following the growing tensions involving Iran and Israel, Mohamed Khaled affirmed that their position remains safe.
"We always have continuous communication (with the team in Lebanon). If anything happens, we will certainly be informed and will take appropriate action," he said. - Bernama
