Maldives Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Independent Palestinian State at OIC Meeting

The Maldives has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to the rights of the Palestinian people and the establishment of a sovereign state, Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam announced following the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Representing the Maldives at the summit, Minister Iruthisham strongly condemned Israel’s ongoing occupation and blockade of Palestinian territories. She expressed deep concern over the international community's failure to enforce international law and implement adequate measures to halt unlawful actions in the region. The Foreign Minister called for the immediate adoption of the “Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict,” identifying it as the essential pathway toward achieving a lasting peace. She emphasized that the Maldives supports a Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem serving as its capital. Addressing the collective responsibility of the Islamic Ummah, Minister Iruthisham stressed that OIC member states must strengthen their coordinated efforts to resolve the Palestinian issue. She noted that the meeting, convened by Saudi Arabia, took place amidst significant opposition to the Gaza ceasefire roadmap. In a statement shared via social media upon her return, the Minister expressed gratitude for the opportunity to consult with fellow Islamic nations. She vowed that the Maldives would continue to advocate for and defend Palestinian rights without wavering. Beyond the primary agenda of the summit, Minister Iruthisham utilized the gathering to hold bilateral discussions with counterparts from several Islamic countries. These meetings focused on enhancing diplomatic ties and strengthening cooperation between the Maldives and its partners in the Muslim world.