In a significant move, Malaysia has imposed a docking ban on the Israel-owned ZIM shipping company across all its ports, citing vehement opposition to the ongoing “massacre and brutality” committed by Israel against Palestinians, particularly in Gaza. The ban also extends to any ships flying the Israeli flag, with an additional prohibition on vessels en route to Israel from loading cargo at Malaysian ports.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s office released a statement, asserting that the immediate ban on ZIM is a direct response to Israel’s actions in Gaza. “Additionally, a ban has been imposed on any ships en route to Israel from loading cargo at Malaysian ports. Both of these restrictions take immediate effect,” stated Anwar Ibrahim.
ZIM, headquartered in Haifa, Israel, is a globally recognized international cargo shipping company, ranking among the top 20 carriers worldwide. The ban follows Houthi Militants’ commitment to prevent any Israel-linked or Israel-bound cargo ships from passing through the Red Sea until the bombardment of Gaza ceases.
The Malaysian move aligns with global protests against the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) bombardment of civilian areas in Gaza. The IOF’s actions have drawn condemnation, with more than 19,600 casualties, including over 70 percent children, leading to widespread characterization as a massacre and genocide.
An online petition advocating the ban on Israeli-owned ships from docking in Malaysia gained momentum, collecting over 26,000 signatures. The petition, prompted by a scheduled ZIM-owned ship docking at Westport on December 26, 2023, called on the Minister of Transport to instruct the Port Klang Authority to refuse entry to the vessel. The petition emphasizes that failure to do so would indicate a lack of commitment by the Malaysian government to address the atrocities committed by the Zionist regime against Palestinians.
This bold step by Malaysia contributes to the international response against Israel’s actions and underscores the global call for justice and peace in the region.
