The Government has reiterated its longstanding support for the Palestinian people, with Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel confirming that the country remains committed to ensuring that the people of Palestine can live in peace.

In response to a written question from North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim, the minister stated that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had, in consultation with the Cabinet, decided on 2 June 2024 to ban the import of Israeli passports. To implement this policy, an amendment to the Immigration Act No. 1/2007 is required. The proposed changes are currently under review by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Security, which is engaging with various stakeholders. Once enacted, the amendment will facilitate the enforcement of the Government’s decision.

The Government has also been working closely with Arab and Islamic nations to highlight the plight of Palestinians on the international stage. The Maldives has consistently condemned Israel’s actions against Palestinian civilians and has called for an end to such hostilities at various global forums.

As part of these efforts, the Maldives has actively participated in international legal proceedings concerning Palestine. The country has submitted a written statement in a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where the United Nations General Assembly has sought an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel’s policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Additionally, the Maldives has filed a Declaration of Intervention in the ICJ case brought by South Africa against Israel concerning the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in Gaza. The Maldives is also involved in a separate ICJ case addressing Israel’s arrangements for the presence of the United Nations and other international organisations in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Beyond legal action, the Maldives has been increasing its humanitarian assistance to Palestine. The Government has decided to raise its annual contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from USD 5,000 to USD 50,000.

In addition, Maldivians donated USD 1.2 million through a nationwide telethon in 2024 to support Palestinians. As part of the country’s aid efforts, the Maldives has also pledged to send two million fish to Palestine, with the first shipment of 374,400 fish delivered to Gaza on 12 February via the Egyptian Red Crescent.

The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to continue advocating for the Palestinian cause and providing support through diplomatic, legal, and humanitarian means.