LUMUT — Malaysia stands in solidarity with Iran following its recent bombardment by Israel, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today, stressing that the Islamic republic has the right to defend itself against Israeli aggression.
Anwar condemned Israel’s actions, including the killing of Iranian nuclear scientists and top army officials, and also criticised wealthy Muslim nations for remaining silent in the face of such attacks.
“This is why I have told my friends in Cabinet that Malaysia, as an independent and sovereign nation, must defend the rights of our friends — including Iran, which has been brutalised — and support its right to retaliate and preserve its dignity,” he said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the Program Madani Rakyat at Lumut Waterfront.
While acknowledging ideological and political differences between Malaysia and Iran, Anwar said he sympathised with the republic, which has faced years of economic sanctions from the West yet remained resilient.
He praised Iran’s progress in scientific research and education, despite its lack of foreign direct investment — particularly from global tech firms, unlike Malaysia.
“No company has (invested in Iran), and yet it has developed the capability to produce anti-ballistic missiles that can reach Tel Aviv,” he remarked.
Anwar also criticised Western powers for their double standards, saying they condemned Iran for launching retaliatory strikes on Israel but stayed silent when Israel attacked first.
“Alhamdulillah, the leadership of the Madani government remains firm in its principles to defend the rights of all nations,” he stressed.
Two days ago, Israel carried out multiple airstrikes on Iran, targeting its nuclear and energy infrastructure. The attacks reportedly killed Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), along with several top military officers, nuclear scientists, and civilians, including children.
In response, Iran launched a series of missile strikes on targets across Israel, including areas near Haifa and Tel Aviv, killing at least 10 people, according to Al Jazeera.
Following the escalation, Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry issued a travel advisory for Malaysians in Iran, Iraq, and Jordan.
In a statement, the ministry—through its embassies in Tehran, Baghdad and Amman—said it was closely monitoring the situation and urged Malaysians in the affected regions to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions.— June 15, 2025