Malaysian lawmaker Mukhriz Mahathir sparks fury with blanket anti-American remarks

Mukhriz Mahathir, son of former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad, said in a video that he hates all Americans regardless of political affiliation, citing Washington's support for Israel. His comments drew widespread criticism on social media, though he defended them by arguing ordinary citizens share responsibility for their leaders' actions. Malaysia has long been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause and does not recognise Israel.

Mukhriz Mahathir's remarks echo the long-standing anti-Western posture of his father, Mahathir Mohamad, who during his premiership frequently criticized US foreign policy and was barred from entering the United States in 2003. The younger Mahathir's comments come amid escalating tensions between Kuala Lumpur and Washington, particularly over Malaysia's blanket refusal to admit Israeli passport holders, a policy that has drawn repeated objections from the Biden administration.

The video was posted on Saturday and quickly circulated across Malaysian social media platforms, where it drew sharp rebukes from both opposition figures and civil society voices. Mukhriz, however, has stood by his statement, insisting that American voters bear moral accountability for the actions of their elected government. His defense mirrors arguments made by pro-Palestinian activists worldwide who contend that democratic populations cannot disclaim responsibility for state policy.