Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has revealed the decision to donate aid worth USD 97,000 to the Palestinians striving in Gaza Strip. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to the residents of Gaza Strip to obtain essential food items.
Highlighting that this marks the first time funds are allocated via the Zakat fund, Minister Dr. Shaheem disclosed that the humanitarian aid will be distributed with the assistance of Red Crescent from Qatar. The minister unveiled that the funds will be sent to Gaza in two payments, noting that the funds were allocated under the decree of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. He additionally observed that Maldives has provided assistance at an international standard two times up to date, with the support of Qatar's Red Crescent.
Following the distribution of Zakat payments to the underprivileged, the government allocates the remaining funds to the Zakat Fund. Managed according to established policies and recommendations from the Zakat Committee, the fund supports various initiatives, including aiding individuals in need of medical treatment and education, as well as contributing to mosque renovations and other public interest projects.
Despite the order of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) calling for the implementation of a temporary ceasefire, the Israeli military's aggression has continued and has further intensified the attacks on various locations within the Gaza Strip. Since October 7, the ongoing attacks have claimed the lives of 33,137 innocent civilians. This includes 25,000 women and children according to the statement made by the United States Secretary of Defence Llyod Austin. The number of individuals injured mounts to 75,815.