KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has strongly condemned the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, warning that the act could push the Middle East into a period of grave and prolonged instability.
In a posting on X, he said the deliberate targeting of a head of state sets a dangerous precedent and weakens the norms and principles that underpin the international order.
"Those who greet his death with approval should recognise the consequences of such actions. Existential threats seldom yield predictable reactions," he said.
The Prime Minister has also extended his condolences to the Iranian government and people but urged the Iranian authorities to respond with the utmost restraint.
He said Malaysia aligned itself with the statements issued by concerned countries, urging all parties to step back from further escalation.
"Malaysia calls for an immediate ceasefire, the protection of civilians and a return to serious dialogue. This crisis cannot be resolved by force. It requires diplomacy, restraint and political will," he said.
Anwar said his foremost concern remained the welfare and safety of Malaysians in Iran, the Gulf States and the wider Middle East.
"To all Malaysians in the affected region, your government is taking every possible measure to ensure your protection. Our Missions have been given the full mandate and resources to assist you," he said.
He said the government would also urgently evaluate the economic repercussions of the conflict, including risks to regional airspace and to freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
"Malaysia's trade and energy security are directly implicated and we will act as necessary to safeguard our national interests," he said.
The news of Khamenei's death was confirmed this morning when the state-owned broadcaster, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), announced that "Iran's Supreme Leader has been martyred".
Earlier, US President Donald Trump and Israel claimed that Khamenei was killed in a joint attack on Iran. - Bernama
