KUALA LUMPUR - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has thanked Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for allowing Malaysian oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Now we are in the process of releasing the Malaysian oil tankers and the workers involved so that they can continue their journey home,” he said in a special address broadcast live on local television on Thursday.

Anwar said he had earlier spoken with Pezeshkian and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to discuss the situation in West Asia.

He also held a third conversation with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday to get updates on peace efforts following the conflict triggered by attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.

“However, it is not easy as Iran believes it has been deceived repeatedly and finds it difficult to accept moves towards peace without binding agreements and security guarantees for the country.

“The repercussions have also spread to Lebanon, where more than one million people have lost their homes and property. And do not forget, the root cause involving Palestine and Gaza remains unresolved, and the disaster has only worsened their suffering,” he said.

Anwar said the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions to global oil and gas supply could affect Malaysia.

However, he said Malaysia remains in a better position due to the ability of national oil company Petronas to manage supply and maintain energy stability.

He said Malaysia will continue to support efforts to restore peace while protecting the safety of its people and the economy.

“The government has taken a firm stance against the injustices, oppression and aggression carried out by Israel and the United States. 

“However, the situation has become more complex as Iran's response not only affects Israel but also has spillover effects on Gulf countries," Anwar added.

The Prime Minister said Malaysia remains peaceful and stable but is still affected by the conflict due to its close ties with Iran and Gulf countries in trade, investment, education and culture.