US Congressmen Urge Suspension Of Malaysia’s Military Aid Over Israel Policy
US Congressmen Raise Concerns Over Anwar Ibrahim’s Statement
A group of members of the US House of Representatives has submitted an official letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to express concern over remarks made by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The issue arose after the Malaysian government announced plans to identify and remove any Israeli citizens found in the country. The letter was led by Congressmen Greg Landsman and Josh Gottheimer, and was also signed by Jimmy Panetta, Dan Goldman, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Jared Moskowitz, Brad Sherman, and Jake Auchincloss. The Malaysian government’s move is understood to be linked to investigations involving a technology project in Forest City, Johor.
Lawmakers Call Malaysia’s Move Unacceptable
In the letter dated 21 July 2026, the lawmakers acknowledged that Malaysia has long not recognised Israel. However, they argued that identifying and removing individuals solely based on their nationality was unacceptable. The letter stated, “Every dollar of American assistance and diplomatic support should come with the expectation that recipient countries do not target citizens of our close allies.” The lawmakers also raised concerns over Malaysia’s relationship with Hamas while linking the issue to the security assistance received by the country.
IMET Funding Could Be Suspended
Among the programmes highlighted was the International Military Education and Training (IMET) programme, which funds professional military training for Malaysian personnel, as well as access to US trade and technology. The lawmakers also urged the US State Department to review its overall economic and security relationship with Malaysia to ensure it continues to protect US interests. They added that if Malaysia does not withdraw what they described as a discriminatory policy within 15 days, they would urge the department to suspend funding for the IMET programme. The letter was published on the official websites of the offices of Greg Landsman and Josh Gottheimer and was also reported by political journalist Marc Rod of Jewish Insider.
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