Israel-Gaza war: Malaysia’s Anwar defends Hamas ties, says Islamist group sees him as ‘friend’ amid peace talks

“Is that an offence? Did I promote terrorism?” Anwar said at a Nikkei Forum in Tokyo on Thursday. “No. I appealed because I have an advantage. What is my advantage? I know them. And they consider me a friend. A duty as a friend is to convey what’s best.”

Anwar has been the staunchest advocate of the Palestinian cause in Southeast Asia, saying last year Malaysia would not recognise what he says was a unilateral attempt by the US to restrict support of Hamas.

Malaysian leaders have a long history of friendly ties with the group, and routinely turn up at protests at home against the US and the Western world’s support of Israel.

Hamas is designated a terrorist group by the US and the European Union. The group opened a political office in Qatar more than a decade ago in coordination with the US after it requested a channel to communicate with the outfit. Qatar acts as a mediator for indirect talks between Israel, Hamas and Western powers.