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[UPDATED] Malaysia backs Gaza peace plan

 

PUTRAJAYA: Putrajaya has expressed its support for the Gaza peace talk mediated by the United States, with Qatar and Egypt. 

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the cabinet had discussed the matter and agreed to the plan as a step to stop the continuous atrocities and colonisation of Palestinian territory by the Israeli forces. 

"We believe it's a reasonable proposition to secure an immediate ceasefire and hopefully for permanent peace including an amicable resolution to the decades long conflict. 

"Our concern is the reluctance of Israel to agree to this proposition and the display of sheer arrogance and continued aggression towards the people of Gaza," he told reporters after launching the Malaysia Madani National Training module today. 

Anwar said his initial discussion with Hamas leaders showed that they were more receptive to the idea of securing permanent peace.

He said the peace plan, outlined by US President Joe Biden, was probably "the most firm position" that the republic had taken and should be supported by all parties.

"We also hope the US could use its influence to ensure Israel respects that decision," he said.

The US, Egypt and Qatar have been seeking to mediate an end to the war for months, but it was reported that Israel was only willing to suspend the war in exchange for hostages. 

The plan, among others, outlined the withdrawal of Israel military from Populated areas of Gaza during a six-week ceasefire, and for Hamas and Israel to negotiate terms for a permanent end to hostilities. 

The third phase of the plan would include a permanent ceasefire, which would allow for the reconstruction of the enclave, and an ultimate final end to a devastating war in which Israel has killed more than 36,000 Palestinians. 

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted his country would still pursue the war until it had reached all its aims, including the destruction of Hamas's military and administrative capabilities. 

Israeli forces hammered Rafah in southern Gaza with tanks and artillery, just hours Biden said Israel was offering a new roadmap towards a full ceasefire on May 31. 

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