Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim vowed to maintain the country’s policy of denying entry to Israeli nationals.
Anwar said Malaysia remains committed to defending Palestinians and opposing what he called oppression, aggression and continued killings in Gaza.
He stressed that the policy has existed for decades and should already be known to the United States.
Several US lawmakers recently criticised Malaysia for barring Israeli citizens and restricting their participation in companies and related activities.
However, Anwar said American criticism would not deter Kuala Lumpur from maintaining its policy.
He added that Malaysia would continue defending its people’s rights while upholding the government’s decision to prohibit Israeli nationals from entering the country.
The dispute intensified after eight Democratic US representatives urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to respond to Malaysia’s policy.
They also called for suspending International Military Education and Training funding if Kuala Lumpur refuses to reverse its position.
Malaysia Explains Immigration Policy Amid Diplomatic Dispute
Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan said Thursday that authorities asked a dual US-Israeli citizen to leave the country.
The individual entered Malaysia using a US passport, but officials discovered his Israeli citizenship during subsequent checks.
Meanwhile, Anwar questioned how American lawmakers could remain silent about civilian deaths, destroyed homes and land occupation.
He insisted that Malaysia remains an independent nation with the right to express its views on international issues.
Nevertheless, Anwar said the dispute should not damage Malaysia’s bilateral relations with Washington.
Hasan added that Malaysia’s ambassador in Washington had explained Kuala Lumpur’s position to the US State Department.
He said Malaysia’s immigration policy does not recognise Israel or what he described as the Zionist regime.
The Malaysian government has consistently maintained its support for Palestinian rights amid the continuing conflict in Gaza.
