President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has made a fervent plea to the international community to intervene in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning what he described as Israel’s intensified and systematic assault against Palestinian civilians.
In a strongly worded statement issued via social media, President Muizzu denounced the escalating military offensive by Israeli forces, characterising it as a deliberate campaign aimed at the extermination of the Palestinian population. “Strongly and unequivocally condemn the continued targeting of innocent civilians by Israel in Gaza, as the genocidal assault by Israel intensifies,” he stated.
The president’s remarks come at a time when violence in the region has surged to unprecedented levels. Since last Thursday, Israeli attacks have intensified, marking one of the deadliest escalations since the breakdown of the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel on March 18. Civilian casualties have mounted, with the Palestinian Ministry of Health reporting 53,272 deaths, while Gaza’s Media Office places the toll even higher, at 61,700. The number of injured is estimated to exceed 120,000.
President Muizzu stressed the urgent need for international bodies to act, urging global leaders and organisations to press for an immediate ceasefire and take tangible steps to safeguard civilian lives. “The Maldives calls on the international community to take decisive and immediate action to halt the escalation of violence and the immediate cessation of hostilities,” he said.
He further called for accountability, urging global institutions to uphold international humanitarian law and ensure justice. “We reiterate our call to take effective measures for the protection of civilian lives in accordance with the international legal and moral obligations and ensure that Israel is held accountable for its actions,” the president said.
This is not the first time the Maldivian leader has raised his voice on the issue. At the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly last year, President Muizzu called on the global community to respond to what he termed as “genocide” against Palestinians, reaffirming Maldives’ unwavering support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly. Alongside the loss of life, widespread destruction of homes, hospitals, and essential infrastructure has displaced thousands and pushed vital services to the brink of collapse. The offensive, which began in October 2023, has received continued backing from the United States—fueling international outrage and growing calls for restraint and resolution.
President Muizzu’s statement adds to the growing chorus of international voices demanding immediate action to prevent further bloodshed and restore stability in the region.
