The Maldives, along with 15 other countries, has issued a joint statement calling for the protection of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which is seeking to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The statement, released on 16 September by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlights concern for the safety of participants from the signatory states, who are part of the civil society-led mission. The flotilla seeks to transport aid to Palestinians in Gaza while also drawing attention to the worsening humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

The governments of Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain and Türkiye underscored the objectives of the initiative, supporting peace, humanitarian assistance and adherence to international humanitarian law, are fully shared by their administrations.

The countries called on all parties to refrain from any unlawful or violent action against the vessels, stressing that the rights and safety of those on board must be respected. They further warned that violations of international law, including attacks in international waters or the unlawful detention of participants, would trigger accountability under global legal frameworks.

The joint appeal from comes amid continued conflict in Gaza, where international organisations have repeatedly sounded the alarm over shortages of food, medicine and basic supplies, as well as the need for uninterrupted humanitarian access.