Former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad has voiced deep anger and sorrow over the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. In a statement issued today, Dr. Mahathir expressed his profound sadness at the loss of a man he described as courageous and principled.
Dr. Mahathir, who had the opportunity to meet Haniyeh, reflected on the late leader’s dedication to the Palestinian cause. “I am deeply saddened because Haniyeh was a man of great integrity and bravery who devoted his life to fighting for the liberation of Palestine,” Mahathir stated. “His death is a significant loss not only to the Palestinians but to all who stand for justice and freedom.”
The former premier’s remarks came in response to reports that Haniyeh was killed in what Hamas has labeled as a “treacherous Zionist raid” on his residence in Tehran. According to Dr. Mahathir, the assassination underscores Israel’s ongoing efforts to eliminate figures who stand against its policies. “Israel’s actions reveal its fear and animosity towards Haniyeh’s principles and his relentless quest for Palestinian liberation,” Mahathir said.
Dr. Mahathir also criticized the international community, particularly the Western world, for its perceived inaction and support for Israeli policies. He condemned the silence of Western nations, which he accused of siding with Israel in what he termed acts of terror and genocide against Palestinians. “It is disheartening that while the Western world could make a significant difference, it instead chooses to remain passive or even supportive of Israeli aggression,” Mahathir stated.
Highlighting Haniyeh’s character, Dr. Mahathir described him as a “soft-spoken man with the heart of a lion,” whose leadership was marked by moral conviction and a strong sense of humanity. “Haniyeh's bravery and dedication were rooted in his clear conscience and moral compass. He exemplified what it means to fight for justice,” Mahathir added.
The former prime minister also criticized Western media and leaders for their portrayal of Hamas and Haniyeh. He accused them of hypocrisy for labeling Haniyeh and Hamas as terrorists while ignoring the aggressive actions of the Israeli government and its military forces. “The assassination of Haniyeh highlights the ruthless and arrogant nature of the Israeli regime. Yet, the Western media and their leaders continue to condemn Haniyeh and Hamas, failing to acknowledge the true perpetrators of terror,” Mahathir remarked.
Despite the tragic death of Haniyeh, Dr. Mahathir expressed confidence that Haniyeh’s legacy and the struggle for Palestinian rights would continue. “While they may have taken Haniyeh’s life, they cannot extinguish his ideas or the cause he represented. The Palestinian people will ensure that his sacrifice is not in vain,” he asserted.
In closing, Dr. Mahathir extended his condolences to Haniyeh’s family, Hamas, and the Palestinian people. “To the family of Haniyeh, please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of such a remarkable man. To Hamas and the Palestinian people, you have lost a great leader, but his courage and conviction will inspire continued resistance,” he concluded.
Dr. Mahathir’s statements reflect his ongoing commitment to the Palestinian cause and his critique of global political dynamics surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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