Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Minister of Islamic Affairs, on Friday urged the Maldivian public to remain steadfast in their support for Palestine until the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
His remarks were delivered at a public gathering in the capital, organised to protest the ongoing genocide in Gaza and to call for the lifting of the blockade imposed by the occupational Israeli forces. The event drew attention to the genocide against the people of Gaza.
Minister Shaheem spoke of a “profound, enduring bond of brotherhood” between the Maldives and Palestine, extending across the broader Islamic Ummah. He said Maldivians were “raising [their] collective voice in defense of Palestine, its people, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the ‘Mujahideen’ working for Gaza’s defense.” He called for the immediate removal of restrictive measures and the dismantling of the blockade, urging that borders be opened to allow humanitarian aid into the region.
The minister condemned the “extremist Zionist state of Israel” for its “inhumane acts” against Gaza’s population, and criticised major international powers for supporting Israel’s actions. “We demand the immediate lifting of the siege on Gaza. We further call for the immediate cessation of all restrictive measures imposed on Gaza. Our persistent plea is for the opening of the borders,” Minister Shaheem stated.
He continued, “We unequivocally condemn the genocide currently being perpetrated by Israel against the people of Gaza. Moreover, we denounce the assistance provided by major international powers to Israel, which is being directed against the residents of Gaza.”
Minister Shaheem described the defence of Palestinian rights as a national and moral obligation, calling it the “rightful path.” He reaffirmed that Maldivians must continue to advocate for Palestine until the realisation of a sovereign state.
He concluded by encouraging citizens to contribute to the “great jihad” being waged by Palestinians against “Zionist forces,” urging participation through verbal support or financial contributions, according to individual capacity.