Nobel Peace Prize laureate and education rights advocate Malala Yousafzai has sharply criticised the United States for failing to use its global influence to stop the war in Gaza, calling Washington’s inaction “deeply disappointing.”
Speaking at the Financial Times Women in Business Summit, Malala condemned the U.S. for not doing more to end the violence.
“The US has so much power and influence, yet it has not used it to bring peace, ensure stability, or protect innocent lives,” she said. Malala added that she hopes the U.S. will take stronger steps to push for a ceasefire in Gaza, stop Israel’s military campaign, and ensure humanitarian aid reaches the besieged population.
Addressing widespread criticism over her perceived silence on Israel’s actions, Malala dismissed the claims as false and based on misinformation.
“Public figures are often scrutinised unfairly, and sometimes people simply choose not to check the facts,” she said. “I’ve been accused of staying silent on Gaza, but I have spoken about it many times—going back to 2014.”
She pointed to her long-standing support for Palestinians, noting that she has consistently used her platform to speak out and contribute aid.
“I’ve helped fund schools in Gaza in 2014, 2021, and 2023 and given emergency grants to organisations currently working with children in Gaza,” she said.
Malala also turned attention to Afghanistan, where women and girls continue to face repression under the Taliban.
“What Afghan women are enduring is horrific. The U.S. must take stronger action to support them—by increasing global pressure and amplifying the voices of Afghan women and activists,” she urged.
In her closing remarks, Malala underscored the need for unity and collective advocacy.
“We are all on the same side, fighting for the same cause—human dignity, education, and peace for all.”
