Kuala Lumpur: Egypt and France have extended an invitation to Malaysia to join efforts in coordinating the reconstruction of Gaza, as part of the broader initiative supporting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hassan announced the invitation, received through telephone conversations with his counterparts from both countries.

According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the call for collaboration comes after the adoption of the New York Declaration, formally known as Supporting the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and Implementation of the Two-State Solution. The resolution saw substantial support, with 142 votes in favor, 10 against, and 12 abstentions.

During a parliamentary session discussing the 2026 draft budget for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Hassan expressed Malaysia's commitment to contributing to Gaza's reconstruction. He stated his intention to travel to Cairo to ensure Malaysia's involvement, even if limited, to aid in restoring the situation in Gaza.

Additionally, Minister Hassan indicated Malaysia's readiness to deploy troops to join a peacekeeping force in Gaza, contingent on receiving a mandate and invitation from the United Nations. He emphasized Malaysia's consistent participation in peacekeeping missions under UN directives, highlighting that operations without such mandates are not feasible.