Malaysia backs Egyptian efforts to halt Iran war, PM tells El-Sisi

CAIRO – 26 March 2026: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said his country supports Egypt’s efforts to de-escalate regional tensions and stop the war in Iran during talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Thursday.

During the call, Ibrahim emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening coordination with Egypt toward these goals.

The two leaders discussed current regional developments related to the war with El-Sisi reaffirming Egypt’s position calling for de-escalation and a halt to the war.

Intensive Contacts

Their discussions while Egypt, alongside other regional partners, has been reportedly passing messages between Washington and Tehran in recent days in an attempt to pave the way for direct engagement.

Egypt said it is conducting contacts with all concerned parties to ease tensions, avoid a “point of no return,” and prevent a potential global economic downturn.

The war in Iran has been ongoing since February 28, when coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets triggered Iranian retaliatory attacks that have spilled into the wider region, including strikes on several Arab countries hosting US forces.

During the call, El-Sisi condemned attacks on Arab countries, and stressed Egypt’s rejection of any action undermining their stability or violating their sovereignty under any pretext.

He also warned of the war’s negative economic consequences at both regional and global levels, particularly regarding rising energy prices and supply chains.

Gaza, West Bank

The phone call also covered developments in Gaza and the West Bank.

The Malaysian prime minister highlighted Egypt’s role in achieving the Sharm El-Sheikh ceasefire agreement in Gaza and the importance of its full implementation, including the delivery of humanitarian aid to residents.

Ibrahim noted Malaysia’s intention to provide additional humanitarian assistance to Gaza in coordination with the relevant Egyptian authorities and condemned Israeli attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank.

Egypt-Malaysia Ties

The call additionally addressed the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and Malaysia.

Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of continuing to enhance cooperation across various fields and developing economic, trade, and investment partnerships, including efforts to increase Malaysian investment in Egypt.