The United States Department of State has summoned Malaysia’s ambassador to Washington, Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob, to discuss Malaysia’s longstanding policy of not recognizing Israel, according to reports from Malaysia’s state news agency Bernama.

Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan confirmed that the ambassador reiterated the country’s position during the meeting, stating that Malaysia has never recognized the state of Israel. “It has always been Malaysia’s policy. Our immigration policy does not recognise the State of Israel or Israel. This has long been our position,” Hasan said.

Malaysia has consistently expressed support for the Palestinian cause and has criticized Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank. The country’s refusal to establish diplomatic relations with Israel aligns with its broader stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The U.S. government’s decision to summon Malaysia’s ambassador reflects ongoing tensions regarding diplomatic ties and policies related to Israel. The specifics of the discussions between the ambassador and U.S. officials have not been publicly disclosed.