Nik Aziz says Pas will never recognise Israel

By Azreen Hani Wednesday, February 22, 2012

By Azreen Hani

"It's up to Anwar to accept Pas' stance," Nik Aziz.

KUALA LUMPUR: Pas spiritual leader Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat today reiterated the party's stance of not recognising Israel, stressing that it is 'haram' (forbidden) to have any form of ties with the state.

"Israel has been continuously attacking and killing Palestinians, thus it is haram for us to accept the existence of Israel," Nik Aziz said.

In his latest Facebook post, Nik Aziz also commented on the meeting (pic) that took place on Tuesday morning between him and Parti Keadilan Rakyat de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Nik Aziz said Anwar had explained all issues that have arisen but Pas would stand by the party's Syura Council (council of religious elders) decision of not recognising Israel.

"It is up for Anwar to accept Pas' stand about this," he said, adding that Anwar understands the party's decision on the matter.

Thus, the Kelantan Mentri Besar said the question of Pas sacrificing its principles because they were part of Pakatan Rakyat does not arise.

"I believe Pakatan Rakyat is united in supporting the Palestinians' struggle towards being freed from the atrocities of Israel," he added.

In his post on Tuesday Nik Aziz lashed out at unnamed quarters he accused of supporting Israel, but has remained silent on Anwar’s remarks in support of Israel in Wall Street Journal last month.

It was reported that Anwar met Nik Aziz and Pas information chief Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man to discuss the issue on Tuesday.

After the meeting Anwar was quoted as saying, "Nik Aziz listened to my explanation. I understand Pas' strong and clear views on the issue of Israel."

"I feel good now that I have explained and cleared any doubt there was over the statement made,"

Anwar also said he would not sue the Wall Street Journal because the report in WSJ "was not wrong".