Malaysia Urges Immediate Implementation of Ceasefire, Unhindered Aid Access to Gaza

PUTRAJAYA, March 4 (Bernama) -- Malaysia urges the full and immediate implementation of all phases of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, including the exchange of hostages and prisoners, as originally agreed by all parties.

In a statement Tuesday, Malaysia's Foreign Ministry emphasised that any delay or deviation from the agreement risks deepening the humanitarian crisis and jeopardising ongoing efforts towards a just and lasting peace.

The ministry underscored the importance of adhering to the agreed terms to ensure the cessation of hostilities and the unhindered delivery of critical humanitarian aid to Gaza.

“Malaysia also reaffirms the need for continued international efforts to ensure the ceasefire leads to a sustainable resolution that upholds the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people.

“The path to lasting peace must include an end to the blockade and occupation, as well as the establishment of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital,” the statement stated.

Meanwhile, Malaysia urged all parties to facilitate the unimpeded flow of aid in accordance with international humanitarian law, the rulings of the International Court of Justice, and United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 2735 (2024).

The ministry stated that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with over two million people in urgent need of assistance.

“Humanitarian aid must reach those affected without obstruction, or political conditions.

“Humanitarian assistance must remain neutral, impartial and free from political interference,” it stated.

Malaysia also reaffirmed its backing for Palestine’s full membership in the UN.

The recent blockade and disruption of the ceasefire occurred after the initial 42-day phase, which began on Jan 19, expired without progress to the subsequent phases.

The stalemate led to Israel halting aid to Gaza on March 2, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, according to international media reports.

-- BERNAMA