Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel and Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla have met with representatives of the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international movement seeking to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis resulting from the blockade of the Gaza Strip, during the delegation’s visit to the Maldives.

The Global Sumud Flotilla delegation arrived in the Maldives on 6 January and includes senior steering committee members Thiago Ávila, Saif Abukeshek, Muhammad Nadir Al-Nuri and Kleoniki Alexopoulou.

During a meeting held on Wednesday with the delegation, Foreign Minister Dr Khaleel welcomed the group and commended its efforts to raise international awareness of the humanitarian situation facing the Palestinian people in Gaza. He noted that the flotilla plays an important role in mobilising global attention and solidarity for Palestinians affected by the ongoing crisis.

The Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem praised the Global Sumud Flotilla for its commitment to justice and human dignity. He reaffirmed that the Maldives will continue to stand firmly with the Palestinian people and said the Government of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has consistently advocated for Palestinian rights in international forums.

The Speaker also highlighted the President’s swift ratification of legislation banning entry on Israeli passports, describing the move as a principled decision by a tourism-based country in support of the Palestinian cause.

During their visit, the flotilla delegation is scheduled to meet Government officials, civil society organisations and other stakeholders. The meetings will focus on sharing information about the flotilla’s objectives, its experiences to date and its future plans.

The Global Sumud Flotilla aims not only to challenge the blockade and deliver humanitarian assistance, but also to establish a sustained civilian presence in Gaza. The mission includes doctors, nurses, teachers, eco-builders and unarmed civilian protectors who plan to work alongside the Palestinian people as they cope with ongoing attacks and begin rebuilding healthcare services and basic infrastructure damaged over recent years.