On December 20, Malaysia issued a ban preventing Israeli-flagged cargo ships from docking at its ports as a response to Israel’s actions in Gaza, citing a perceived disregard for “basic humanitarian principles.”
In a recent statement, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim declared an immediate prohibition on ships destined for Israel, preventing them from loading cargo at any port within Malaysia. Notably, PM Anwar singled out ZIM, Israel’s largest shipping firm. Despite Malaysia’s Cabinet granting ZIM authorization to dock at Malaysian ports in 2002, the latest statement announced the rescission of this authorization. PM Anwar emphasized that the Malaysian government has decided to prohibit the Israeli-based shipping company ZIM from docking at any port in the country.
These sanctions are a direct response to Israel’s actions that violate basic humanitarian principles and breach international law, involving an ongoing crisis with significant loss of life and brutality against Palestinians. Malaysia has additionally chosen to cease accepting ships bearing the Israeli flag for docking and has imposed a ban on any vessel en route to Israel from loading cargo at Malaysian ports. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed confidence that these measures would not adversely affect Malaysia’s trade. It’s worth noting that Malaysia does not maintain diplomatic ties with Israel.
The conflict originated when Hamas militants launched an offensive from Gaza on October 7, resulting in casualties in Israel, primarily among civilians, and abductions. In response, Israel, with the objective of dismantling Hamas, initiated a campaign involving bombardment and a ground invasion in Gaza, leading to substantial casualties, particularly among women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. International pressure is growing for a new truce, with the United Nations scheduled to vote on Wednesday to call for a ceasefire, potentially facilitating increased aid to the besieged Palestinian territory.
