Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has departed for Doha to take part in the preparatory meeting of foreign ministers ahead of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit, called in response to escalating instability in the region.
The agenda is expected to focus on Israel’s continued aggression in Palestine, the recent attacks targeting Qatar, and wider threats to regional peace and security.
In a post shared on social media before his departure, Dr Khaleel reaffirmed the Maldives’ unwavering solidarity with the people of Palestine and Qatar. He stressed that the Maldives would continue to advocate for justice on the international stage and support efforts to hold Israel accountable for its ongoing violations of international law.
The emergency talks follow heightened tensions after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined plans for a so-called “Greater Israel,” extending claims over parts of Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, and Jordan. Though Qatar was not mentioned in this territorial plan, the country has recently come under Israeli attack, while Iran has also been struck.
These developments add to the backdrop of Israel’s widely condemned military campaign in Gaza since 7 October 2023. The offensive has triggered a deepening humanitarian crisis, including widespread starvation, drawing concern and outrage from the international community.
The Maldives has been among the most vocal nations in its support of Palestine, consistently calling for accountability and a just resolution in line with international law.
