The Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Sareer, has strongly condemned Israel’s recent decision to strip the Palestinian Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs and the Municipality of Hebron of administrative authority over the Ibrahimi Mosque. 

He voiced his concerns during the Extraordinary Open-ended Meeting of the OIC Executive Committee at the level of Permanent Representatives, held today in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, at the request of the State of Palestine.

Addressing the meeting, Ambassador Sareer denounced the transfer of authority over the Ibrahimi Mosque to the Jewish Religious Council, stating that any attempt to alter the historical and legal status quo of the mosque and other holy sites in the occupied Palestinian territories is a clear violation of international law. He warned that such actions would further escalate tensions in the region and undermine prospects for peace.

Ambassador Sareer underscored the collective responsibility of OIC member states and the broader international community to safeguard the Islamic and cultural heritage of the occupied Palestinian territories. He reiterated the Maldives’ steadfast support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination, and called for recognition of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The OIC, which represents 57 member states, remains a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights and statehood. The Maldives, a member of the OIC since 1976, has consistently supported international efforts to advance the Palestinian cause.