Police Dismiss Hamas Hub Allegations
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, categorically rejected claims made by a US analyst suggesting that Malaysia functions as a hub for Hamas operations. Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail addressed the allegations, emphasizing Malaysia's commitment to international relations and national security.
Origin of the Claims
The claims originated from Jonathan Schanzer, a former US Treasury Department terrorism finance analyst and current executive director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD). Schanzer made his assertions on social media, specifically platform X, around September 18, 2025. His posts alleged that Malaysia has 'long hosted Hamas operatives' and that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was 'not interested in peace' between Palestine and Israel. These remarks followed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's statements reaffirming Malaysia's support for Palestine and advocating for the severance of ties with Israel.
Official Rebuttal and Context
IGP Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail clarified that while the Palestinian struggle resonates deeply with Muslims in Malaysia, this concern has been 'misinterpreted by certain quarters.' He stressed that Malaysia continues to foster good relations with the United States and other nations. The IGP also noted the presence of foreign nationals, including Palestinians and Syrians, studying in Malaysian higher learning institutions, suggesting their presence might be subject to misinterpretation.
Regarding national security, Mohd Khalid assured that Malaysia's control at border areas remains at an 'optimum level.' This is attributed to close cooperation among various government agencies, including the Immigration Department, Customs Department, and the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS). He further stated that the PDRM consistently collaborates and shares information with foreign counterparts to ensure effective preventive security measures.
Academic and Public Reaction
Schanzer's allegations sparked considerable backlash from Malaysian social media users. Additionally, Professor Dr Mohd Mizan Mohd Aslam, a leading academic in defence and international relations from the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM), described Schanzer's claims as 'dangerous, unfounded, and diplomatically reckless.' Dr Mizan warned that such accusations could damage Malaysia's international image and strain bilateral ties between Kuala Lumpur and Washington.
5 Comments
Donatello
It's good that the police are denying these serious accusations, but international concerns, even if exaggerated, often stem from a perceived lack of clarity. Malaysia needs to actively manage its global image.
Michelangelo
Schanzer is just pushing a biased agenda. His claims are baseless and irresponsible.
Donatello
The strong public and political support for the Palestinian cause in Malaysia is deeply rooted, but this passion can sometimes be misconstrued abroad. It's crucial for Malaysia to clearly differentiate between humanitarian support and any perceived operational backing for specific organizations.
Raphael
Denial isn't proof. There's usually some truth to these kinds of allegations.
Donatello
Supporting Palestine is one thing, but enabling groups like Hamas is unacceptable.