Malaysia Calls on BRICS to Oppose Occupation, Settler Violence

(MENAFN) Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged BRICS members to take a firm position against what he described as occupation, settler colonialism and settler violence, warning that Israel’s military actions in the Middle East are producing consequences that extend well beyond the immediate parties to the conflicts.

Speaking at the BRICS summit in New Delhi on Sunday, Anwar said the bloc should make its position clear on the issue.

"BRICS must say plainly and unequivocally that occupation, settler colonialism and, more pointedly, 'settler terrorism' cannot become destiny, and that no life weighs less for where it is lived," he said.

He argued that economic development and shared prosperity cannot be separated from regional security, particularly as conflict continues to affect energy markets and international shipping routes.

"We cannot speak of inclusive growth and prosperity while war drives energy prices higher and threatens the sea lanes on which our economies depend," he said.

Anwar said Israel’s "aggression" across the Middle East has generated broader economic consequences, contributing to higher inflation and increased uncertainty in markets far beyond the areas directly affected by the fighting.

The regional escalation began after the US and Israel launched military action against Iran on Feb. 28, prompting Tehran to respond with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and countries in the region hosting US military assets.

Iran subsequently announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic, triggering major disruptions to international energy supplies and global trade routes.

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