Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, during the Open-Ended Extraordinary Meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Wednesday, highlighted the worsening situation in Gaza and condemned the genocidal acts committed by Israel against the Palestinian people.
Minister Zameer underscored the urgent need for the international community to uphold the rule of law and ensure a lasting humanitarian ceasefire. Incremental aid to Gaza is no longer sufficient, he said, calling for safe and efficient distribution through humanitarian convoys.
Reiterating the Maldives’ unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause, Minister Zameer advocated for an independent and sovereign Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The Minister also condemned Israel’s assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, Chief of Hamas’ Political Bureau. These remarks come amid criticism of the Mohamed Muizzu administration’s delayed response to the assassination.
While the Arab and Islamic world swiftly denounced Israel’s actions, the Muizzu administration’s statement failed to mention the ongoing “genocide” in Gaza, sparking widespread criticism on social media.
Maldivians expressed dissatisfaction, demanding a stronger condemnation. The OIC, representing 57 Member States, continues to advocate for Palestinian statehood, with the Maldives playing an active role since 1976.