KUALA LUMPUR – Apart from standing in solidarity and sending humanitarian aid to the Palestinians who are affected in the conflict with Israel, Malaysia will continue to put diplomatic pressure on the ceasefire.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir, in his speech in Dewan Rakyat today, said that this is the most effective way, citing the current situation, despite receiving suggestions and options from many parties.
Zambry said that the effectiveness of putting diplomatic pressure can be seen even in the United States, where the plight of Palestinians has begun to make its way through conversations within the state.
The US narrative against Palestinians has slowly changed, when public support for the cause was not allowed previously.
“The US narrative against Palestinians has slowly changed, as public support for the cause was previously not allowed.”
He also mentioned that currently, at the border of Rafah, international volunteers have been distributing humanitarian aid for Palestinians, which was donated by other countries.
“The Egyptian authorities and administration have been dedicated and committed to helping the Palestinians.
“However, most of the challenges faced by the volunteers, especially in distributing aid, come from the Israeli authorities, as they are inconsistent when it comes to allowing the number of trucks carrying the aid into Gaza.
“Some days they allow 15 trucks, sometimes 14 or 20.
“Anyhow, we are making sure that the distribution of aid to the Palestinians is expedited,” he said.
Meanwhile, Zambry said that at least 45% of houses in Gaza have been reported destroyed or damaged, and 92% of the people in Palestine are in need of safe drinking water.
“Regarding food security, the stock is sufficient for seven days, but it may run out in five days because only a limited number of trucks carrying aid are allowed to enter Gaza,” said Zambry, citing United Nations news statistics, which recorded that over 1.4 million Palestinians in Gaza had been displaced as of October 31.
Meanwhile, as of yesterday, 8,653 people have died, while over 23,050 people have been injured. The death statistics show 3,541 children, 2,187 women, 63 UN Relief and Works Agency volunteers, 35 journalists, and 134 health workers. – November 1, 2023