Maldives Condemns Attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait, Urges Diplomatic De-escalation

The Maldives government has joined the international community in condemning recent drone and missile attacks that targeted civilian sites and critical infrastructure in Bahrain and Kuwait. In an official statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs characterized the assaults as a "blatant violation of sovereignty," warning that such aggression poses a severe threat to peace and stability across the Gulf region. Expressing unwavering solidarity with the governments and peoples of both nations, the Maldives affirmed its support for all measures taken to safeguard their security and territorial integrity. The government emphasized that targeting civilian infrastructure violates international law and endangers innocent men, women, and children who are not responsible for the geopolitical tensions driving the conflict. Beyond condemnation, the Maldives underscored the urgent need to prevent further military escalation. The government called upon all involved parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomatic engagement as the primary tools for resolving disputes and reducing regional friction. The recent strikes have caused significant damage and loss of life. An Iranian attack on Kuwait's international airport killed an Indian national and injured 63 people, forcing a temporary closure of the facility. This marks the first deadly strike in the Gulf since a ceasefire was established on April 8. Kuwait also reported damage to several unnamed diplomatic missions. The volatility follows more than a month of conflict sparked by U.S. and Israeli operations against Iran, which prompted Iran to launch thousands of missiles and drones at various Gulf nations. Iran has justified its actions by accusing Kuwait and Bahrain of allowing the United States to use their territories to launch attacks on an Iranian island and tanker. In Bahrain, authorities reported intercepting three missiles and several drones launched by Iran. While the ceasefire has largely held, these sporadic and deadly strikes continue to test the region's fragile stability, prompting calls from the international community for an immediate return to diplomatic channels.