A perilous new chapter unfolds in the Middle East as Israel’s preventive airstrikes on Iran, under Operation Roaring Lion and backed by U.S. military operations, heighten fears of all-out conflict. From Kuala Lumpur, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has issued a scathing rebuke of the violence, advocating earnestly for diplomatic resolutions to avert disaster.
Anwar painted a grim picture: ‘The Israeli offensive and U.S. involvement have teetered the region on catastrophe’s edge, undermining dialogue and risking a broader war no one can contain.’ He demanded an immediate, unconditional ceasefire.
Targeting Washington and Tehran specifically, the PM implored them to shun escalation for talks. He called for even-handed action from the world at large and highlighted worries over Malaysian expatriates’ security in Iran and nearby zones, vowing regional consultations.
Saudi Arabia’s response was equally fierce, lambasting Iran’s attacks on UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, and Kuwait in the strongest terms, hinting at grave fallout for sovereignty breaches. London maintained its no-nuclear-Iran policy and urged Brits in the hot zones to shelter in place.
Aviation fallout followed suit, with British Airways halting flights to Tel Aviv, Bahrain, and now Amman until March 3. The airline emphasized operational caution: ‘We’re tracking the situation intensely and prioritizing safety while rebooking passengers.’
Global leaders face a defining moment. Anwar’s diplomatic overtures signal a collective yearning for sanity, as the specter of war looms large over strategic waterways and alliances.