The Facts
Earlier this week, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim suggested that his administration has dismissed what he characterized as the West's "pressuring attitude" to condemn Hamas in the Middle East conflict, adding that Kuala Lumpur's relationship with the group will continue.
On Monday, Ibrahim told parliament, "Hamas too won in Gaza freely through elections." Malaysia has no diplomatic relations with Israel and has repeatedly backed a two-state solution for the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The Spin
Narrative A
Malaysia must be forthright in condemning any form of violence against innocent civilians. Ideological hues, political affiliations, and religious identities must not matter when horrific acts like the one carried out by Hamas last weekend are in question — no matter the geopolitical alliances. The victims of this terrorist attack deserve unconditional support from Kuala Lumpur.
Narrative B
Western governments want other nations to take a stand similar to theirs on Hamas and Israel. However, Muslim-majority Malaysia has been a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights. It should come as no surprise that Malaysia is standing in firm solidarity with the Palestinian point of view in this conflict based on its longstanding historical relationships.
