While Mahathir acknowledged that firms such as Lockheed Martin, and MBDA (BAE Systems) were regulars at exhibitions, the current situation in Palestine was “extraordinary”.

The two firms are taking part in the Defence Services Asia Exhibition and the Asia National Security Exhibition 2024.

“Allowing them (to participate) makes a mockery of all our efforts in opposing the atrocities committed by Tel Aviv. It’s as though we are colluding with them in spilling the blood of Palestinians,” he said in a post on X.

“The government and defence ministry must take stern action and order these companies to leave Malaysia as soon as possible.”

Mahathir, who has been a vocal critic of Israel, said the other firms that supply arms to Tel Aviv must also be ordered to leave, adding that these companies must be made aware of the fact that Malaysia does not tolerate the genocide against the Palestinians.

Mahathir is the latest to oppose the presence of these companies after pro-Palestine group Sekretariat Solidariti Palestin (SSP) and Bersatu voiced similar objections.

Yesterday, SSP also named Aim Point, Colt, L3Harris, Leupold, Shield AI, and Leonardo as providing arms to Israel, saying they have “contributed to the genocide”.

Some of the companies mentioned have previously provided military equipment to Malaysia.