KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the assassination of Hamas leader and former Palestinian prime minister Ismail Haniyeh.
The Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra), in a statement, said the government had unequivocally condemned all acts of violence, including targeted assassinations, and urged peace-loving nations to join in denouncing such acts.
"Malaysia extends our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family members, as well as to the leadership and people of Palestine.
"The incident underscores the urgent need for de-escalation and reinforces the necessity for all parties to engage in constructive dialogue and pursue peaceful resolutions.
"Malaysia urges those responsible to be brought to justice and that all parties exercise restraint while facts surrounding the assassination are being established," it said.
The statement also said members of the Malaysian delegation were safe in Teheran, Iran, including Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, who was a representative at the inauguration of President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Wisma Putra said Malaysia also reaffirmed its commitment to support the Palestinian struggle for justice and self-determination.
"Malaysia recognises the role and contribution of the late Ismail Haniyeh to free Palestine and her people from the illegal Israeli occupation."
Haniyeh was killed along with a bodyguard in an Israeli strike at his residence in Iran earlier today (Wednesday).
Hamas announced his death, saying in a statement: "Brother, leader, mujahid Ismail Haniyeh, the head of the movement, died in a Zionist strike on his residence in Teheran after he participated in the inauguration of the new (Iranian) president."