Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Saturday called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the US-Iran conflict during a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi.
Anwar said in a statement through US social media company X that he expressed concern over the protracted conflict and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The Malaysian prime minister called on all parties to return to the negotiating table, prioritize dialogue and diplomacy to resolve disputes peacefully, and cease actions that could worsen the situation.
Anwar said Kuala Lumpur believes the freedom and security of maritime passages through the Strait of Hormuz must continue to be safeguarded in line with international law, while stressing that any disruption would significantly affect global energy security, trade, and the economy.
The two sides also explored ways to expand Malaysia-Iran trade and investment, including in the energy, agriculture, palm oil, food security, halal industry, technology, and higher education sectors, he said.
The US and Israel launched a war on Iran on Feb. 28, prompting Tehran to fire missiles at Israel and attack US targets and bases in several countries in the region.
Iran also announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to navigation, causing widespread disruption to global energy and trade flows.
