Kuala lumpur: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday announced that he had urged US President Donald Trump to ensure that the peace deal for the Palestinian coastal enclave is fair. Anwar emphasized the need for a comprehensive and durable solution during a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, marking the conclusion of the 47th summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump attended the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, where he held bilateral meetings, including one with Anwar. During the joint US-ASEAN summit, Anwar expressed support for the US’s comprehensive plan to resolve the Gaza conflict, stating it offered hope for diplomacy and determination in resolving long-standing conflicts.

Anwar described utilizing the opportunity of his ride in the US president’s car, known as the Beast, to discuss the peace initiative with Trump. He noted that Trump was receptive during their private engagement, although they had differing views on certain issues. The discussion also touched on ASEAN summit invitations extended to the South African and Brazilian presidents and Anwar’s meetings with Hamas leaders in Doha.

The US-brokered 20-point plan for Gaza, which commenced on October 10, involves a phased ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, involving regional and international mediation. The initial phase includes the exchange of hostages and prisoners and a partial Israeli withdrawal, alongside plans for rebuilding Gaza and establishing a new governance structure excluding Hamas.

Malaysia has committed to deploying peacekeepers to Gaza as part of the peace initiative. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with the Gaza Health Ministry reporting over 68,500 deaths and more than 170,300 injuries since October 2023.