The Maldivian Government has unequivocally condemned Israel’s large-scale airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, which have resulted in the deaths of over 400 Palestinians, including a significant number of children.

The Government asserted that these attacks, carried out during the holy month of Ramadan, constitute a grave violation of the ceasefire agreement as well as international human rights and humanitarian law.

In a strong appeal to the international community, the Maldives called for immediate intervention to halt the escalation of violence, ensure the protection of civilians, and hold Israel accountable for its actions.

Furthermore, the Government reaffirmed its steadfast support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the establishment of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The recent airstrikes represent the most severe military action in Gaza since a ceasefire was enacted in January. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that hostilities have resumed with "full force," warning that this offensive is "just the beginning."

According to Palestinian health authorities, the strikes have shattered nearly two months of relative calm and have inflicted further devastation upon the already war-ravaged enclave, home to 2.3 million people.

Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating the ceasefire agreement. The Israeli military has justified its actions by stating that it is targeting "terror sites" following the collapse of negotiations to extend the truce. In response, Hamas has denounced the airstrikes as attacks on "defenceless civilians" and has urged international mediators to hold Israel accountable for violating the agreement.

As the genocide continues to escalate, the Maldives has reiterated the urgent need for decisive diplomatic action to prevent further loss of life and to work towards a comprehensive resolution that ensures lasting peace and security.