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Maldives expresses concern on the ongoing conflict in Palestine

Maldives has expressed great concern on the ongoing conflict in Palestine.

Speaking at the 38th plenary meeting as part of the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Maldives at the United States, Aishath Fazeena noted the human rights violations and humanitarian crises. Fazeena highlighted Palestinians are being killed by live ammunition during non-violent demonstrations and many others are suffering life-altering injuries. She stressed such actions are unacceptable as the international community, adding protection of the people of Palestine should be ensured.

During the speech, the second secretary also highlighted the plight of the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination will always remain a priority for Maldives. Fazeena said the position of Maldives on the Israeli settlements and related activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory remains unchanged. She emphasized on the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334 which states all settlement activities violate international law.

‘’And further remind the Member States, of the UN Security Council Resolutions 476 and 478 that declared actions by Israel to change the status of the Holy City of Jerusalem are in contravention of international law. The members of the international community was called upon to respect the decisions of the Security Council bearing in mind the implications for peace, security and stability,’’ Fazeena said.

Fazeena stated “Maldives reaffirms our unwavering support for a two-state solution. We stand with Palestine in their quest to establish their own state alongside Israel, on the basis of pre-1967 borders with Ease Jerusalem as its capital. We urge Israel to respect international law so the people of Palestine can enjoy meaningful and lasting peace and can live with dignity.”

The statement was concluded by highlighting that the government and the people of Maldives will always support a peaceful and a lasting solution to the Question of Palestine through a negotiated political settlement, as well as for all other conflicts in the Middle East. All parties were called upon to prioritise all efforts to restore stability in the region through peaceful means.