THE Malaysian Humanitarian Aid and Relief (Mahar) today called for an immediate end to foreign occupation and military aggression in Syria and the lifting of the illegal blockade on Gaza and full, unhindered access for humanitarian aid.
In a statement, Mahar expressed grave concern over the deepening crises in both Syria and Gaza, where ongoing violence, foreign interference, and the deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid are inflicting immeasurable suffering on civilian populations.
"In Syria, the systematic effort to divide the nation along ethnic and sectarian lines continues to undermine any prospect of peace, unity, and sovereignty.
"Despite enduring more than a decade of displacement, deprivation, and war, the Syrian people’s aspirations for a stable, self-determined future persist — and must be defended, it said.
Equally alarming is the escalating humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. For over two months, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have enforced a total blockade, systematically preventing food, medicine, and necessities from reaching the population.
According to the United Nations, thousands of children are now at imminent risk of death due to acute starvation and lack of access to basic care.
"The recent attack on the civilian aid vessel Conscience, operated by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, marks a dangerous escalation in the targeting of humanitarian missions," said Mahar.
Mahar advisor, Nurul Izzah Anwar said: “We must stand firm against any attempt to silence humanitarian voices or criminalize compassion.
"Whether in Syria or Gaza, the future must be determined by the people — not by violence, siege, or starvation. The attack on aid flotillas is not just an assault on human dignity — it is an assault on our shared humanity.”
Mahar also called for the protection of humanitarian missions, including urgent assistance for the vessel Conscience and all humanitarian flotillas and the accountability for violations of international humanitarian law, particularly attacks on aid missions.
"We also call for respect for Syria’s and Palestine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the rights of civilians to live in peace and intensified international pressure to halt the use of starvation as a weapon of war," added Izzah. - May 6, 2025
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