Malaysia is awaiting the green light from the United Nations to deploy a peacekeeping contingent to Gaza for a humanitarian and security mission.
Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the intent had been conveyed to the UN Security Council and the government was awaiting an official mandate before any decision could be finalised.
“We are prepared to send peacekeepers for international assignments and have a battalion on standby for such missions.
“For the deployment of our personnel to Gaza, we must take into account the consent of the Palestinian people, in line with Malaysia’s position that emphasises a comprehensive resolution, as achieving peace in Palestine requires a holistic approach,” said Adly on the sidelines of the Melaka State Legislative Assembly sitting here.
He said the government continued to uphold its international commitments, including through the deployment of 150 peacekeepers under the Malaysia Battalion (Malbatt) 850-13 currently serving in Lebanon, with the mission expected to conclude at the end of next year.
“Our forces are ready to be mobilised to any location requiring an international peacekeeping mission.”
It was reported that the armed forces were awaiting a directive from the UN on the Gaza peacekeeping mission.
Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar had said the military was ready for the mission.