Malaysian authorities will immediately deport Israeli citizens if they are found in the kingdom, as Kuala Lumpur does not recognize the State of Israel. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim told reporters this on July 15.

Earlier, the authorities of the state of Johor appealed to Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs demanding an investigation after social media reports claimed that Israeli citizens were involved in a local educational project in the Forest City area and may have entered the country using passports of other states.

The head of government commented on reports about the possible entry into the country of Israeli citizens using passports of third countries. According to him, the relevant security agencies are already verifying this information.

“We are conducting an investigation. We will not allow this. If such persons are present, measures must be taken. If they are Israeli citizens, then since we do not recognize Israel, they will be deported immediately,” Astro Awani quoted Ibrahim as saying.

The prime minister expressed confidence that the competent ministries would later provide additional clarification on the situation. Malaysia has historically not maintained diplomatic relations with Israel and supports the rights of the Palestinian people.