Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, has strongly condemned Israel’s decision to recognize the Somaliland region, describing the move as a violation of international law and linking it to what he called plans for the “forced transfer” of Palestinians. His remarks were made during a press conference, according to Anadolu Agency.
Prime Minister Anwar said Israel’s recognition of Somaliland should not be viewed as an isolated political decision, but rather as part of a broader policy that continues to undermine justice and fundamental humanitarian principles. He stressed that such actions do not contribute to peace, but instead deepen instability and injustice in the region.
“This action will only perpetuate injustice and will not contribute to peace,” Anwar was quoted as saying by Malaysia’s New Straits Times. He warned that any attempt to use Somaliland in connection with plans to forcibly relocate Palestinians would be completely unacceptable.
Anwar’s comments come after the Palestinian group Hamas issued a statement opposing Israel’s alleged plans to forcibly remove Palestinians from Gaza, including suggestions of relocating them to Somaliland, following Israel’s recognition of the region.
The Malaysian prime minister also cautioned that a renewed outbreak of large-scale violence would result in unacceptable civilian losses and further weaken already fragile prospects for peace. He called on the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions and obligations under international law.
Israel became the first country to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state on Friday, a move that has drawn widespread international criticism. Many countries have described the decision as a breach of international law and a threat to regional stability. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not received international recognition.