Malaysia Blocks Israeli Shipping Firm over Gaza Atrocities

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim declared the prohibition of Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at Malaysian ports and restricted vessels bound for Israel from loading cargo in the Southeast Asian nation, effective immediately. The decision extends to all ships en route to Israel.

Anwar explicitly targeted Israel's prominent shipping company, ZIM, revoking the previous authorization granted in 2002 for ZIM vessels to dock at Malaysian ports. The Prime Minister cited Israel's disregard for humanitarian principles and violations of international law as the catalyst for these measures.

The Malaysian government firmly stated, "These sanctions respond to Israel's actions, defying fundamental humanitarian principles and breaching international law in the continuous brutal treatment and massacres of Palestinians."

Additionally, Malaysia opted to disallow vessels flying the Israeli flag from entering its ports and barred any ships heading to Israel from conducting cargo operations in Malaysian waters. Anwar expressed confidence that Malaysia's trade would remain unaffected.

Malaysia, maintaining no diplomatic relations with Israel, took this stance amid Israel's extensive bombardment and ground invasion in Gaza, resulting in a reported death toll of nearly 20,000, predominantly comprising women and children.

As international calls for a renewed ceasefire amplify to facilitate aid to Gaza, the United Nations plans to vote on a ceasefire proposal, anticipating heightened relief efforts for the besieged Palestinian territory.