Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has called for immediate and unified action from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to address escalating violence in the Middle East, warning that Israel’s continued aggression threatens regional peace and stability.

Speaking at the 51st session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul, Minister Dr Khaleel urged member states to strengthen the organisation’s role and present a united front in defending the rights of the Islamic Ummah. He said the situation in Gaza and beyond demands urgent, coordinated responses.

In a post shared on X, the Minister reiterated his position, stating that Israel’s atrocities “know no bounds,” citing the sustained assault on Palestinians and recent strikes on Iran. He warned that such actions are further destabilising the region.

He added that the Maldives would continue to advocate for its longstanding position on Palestine and reaffirmed that the recognition of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state is essential for lasting peace and justice.

At the summit, Minister Dr Khaleel expressed concern over the intensifying Israeli attacks in Gaza, which have killed more than 50,000 people and injured over 100,000—including 17,000 children—since the escalation began. He described recent Israeli strikes on Iranian territory as a dangerous provocation.

He also pointed to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s decision to bar Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives as a firm stance of solidarity with Palestine.

Minister Dr Khaleel called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and for unconditional delivery of humanitarian aid. He reiterated that peace cannot be achieved without the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

He expressed support for the Saudi-led Two-State Solution initiative and the Gaza Reconstruction Plan, describing both as essential to restoring dignity and stability in the region.

The Minister concluded by commending the OIC’s leadership for defending the interests of the Islamic world and underscored the importance of unity among Muslim nations in addressing the challenges facing the Ummah.