Former President Uz Maumoon Abdul Gayoom (O.D.R.G) has welcomed the Maldives’ decision to join the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international civil society initiative aimed at ending the siege of Gaza.

In an audio posted via X, the former president described Israel’s actions as harmful and a cause of immense suffering for the Palestinian people. Yet, he said, their spirit remained unbroken in the face of relentless hardship.

President Gayoom has been a consistent advocate for a free Palestine. His close friendship with former Palestinian President Yasser Arafat reflected the strong fraternal bond the Maldivian people have long felt with the Palestinian people.

His remarks echoed those of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who on Wednesday condemned recent statements by Israel, announcing what it has called the “Vision of Greater Israel”. President Dr Muizzu rejected the related settlement and expansion plans, saying such rhetoric violated international law and undermined the Palestinian right to self-determination.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, organised by a coalition of direct-action groups, has been described as the largest civilian attempt to break the siege of Gaza to date. It plans to send dozens of boats carrying humanitarian aid, with participants including organisers, humanitarians, doctors, artists, clergy, lawyers, and seafarers.

The coalition says its mission is rooted in the belief in human dignity and the power of non-violent action.