NEW YORK — Malaysia has called on the United Nations (UN) Security Council to impose an immediate arms embargo on Israel at the ongoing 79th general assembly of the world body.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan made this call in his address to present Malaysia’s statement at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) general debate yesterday, stressing that the international community must act swiftly to address ongoing violations.
He said the security council could invoke its Chapter 7 powers to impose an immediate arms embargo on Israel, underscoring the urgency of halting the violence and ensuring accountability for breaches of international law.
“Israel’s actions, with each passing day, raise our doubts as to whether it believes in the UN system, or values its membership in this organisation.
“Its illegal occupation has entrenched a system of apartheid and discrimination against Palestinians. The Israeli regime has itself declared its intent to wipe out an entire population. This is, without question, a genocide,” Bernama reported him saying in his speech.
The foreign minister also stressed that veto powers within the Security Council must be reformed, particularly in cases of human rights abuses.
“The veto should not be exercised at will. There must be exceptions in cases of crimes against humanity and attacks on civilian infrastructure.
“We must limit, or abolish the veto altogether,” he said, adding that the general assembly should take action where the security council has failed.
Mohamad noted that Malaysia, a long-time supporter of Palestine, welcomed the progress made this year with 143 member states extending the UN’s principle of equality to Palestine.
“It fills us with hope to see the State of Palestine seated among us today. We urge the remaining minority to join the majority,” he stated.
Calling for a diplomatic solution, Mohamad reiterated Malaysia’s support for Palestinian statehood.
“Israel has violated every international law there is, including the Genocide Convention, Geneva Conventions and core Human Rights Treaties.
“It is time to realise Palestine’s right to statehood and full membership in this Assembly. Dialogue and diplomacy are the only paths to a lasting solution – not collective punishment, man-made famine or impunity,” he added.
He also referenced Israel’s recent disrespect toward the UN by saying, “Just months ago, we witnessed Israel’s mockery of this body, shredding the UN Charter in this very hall.”
Mohamad also put forward Malaysia’s call for the UN to appoint a Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.
This year’s theme for the General Debate is “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations”. — September 29, 2024.