Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Condemns Killing of Ali Khamenei, Highlights Middle East Instability Risk
A brutal and deadly assault from Israel and the United States on Iran on Saturday 28 February shocked the world.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has issued strong condemnation of the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei. He believes the incident has the potential to push the Middle East towards a deeper and prolonged crisis.
In his official statement in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday 1 March, Anwar affirmed the Malaysian government’s position on the incident.
“I condemn the killing of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader. This action places the Middle East on the brink of serious and sustained instability,” said Anwar.
In addition to condemning the act, Anwar also expressed condolences to the Iranian government and people over the incident.
According to Anwar, those welcoming Khamenei’s death need to consider its long-term implications. He believes that existential threats often trigger unpredictable responses.
He also emphasised that deliberately targeting a head of state can create a dangerous precedent in international relations. Such actions, he said, risk undermining the norms and fundamental principles that have underpinned the global order.
“At the same time, I urge Iranian authorities to show restraint. Malaysia agrees with the statements of countries calling on all parties to cease further escalation,” he said.
Anwar affirmed that Malaysia’s immediate priority is to ensure the security of its citizens in Iran, the Gulf countries, and the wider Middle East region.
He assured that the government continues to take necessary steps to protect all Malaysian citizens in the affected area.
“Our representatives have been given full mandate and resources to assist Malaysian citizens,” Anwar asserted.
The Malaysian government is also assessing the economic impacts likely to arise from the conflict. The evaluation includes potential risks to regional airspace and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important route for global trade and energy distribution.
Anwar believes that Malaysia’s trade stability and energy security are directly affected. Therefore, the government has stated its readiness to take necessary steps to safeguard national interests.
Malaysia has firmly called for an end to violence as soon as possible, protection of civilians, and a resumption of constructive dialogue.
Anwar emphasised that the crisis cannot be resolved through violence.
“Resolution of the crisis cannot be achieved through violence, but requires diplomacy, restraint, and strong political will.”