Maldives delivers statement at the UN Security Council Open Debate on the Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question
On Tuesday, 24 October 2023, Secretary, Bilateral, Dr. Hala Hameed delivered a statement on behalf of the Maldives at the United Nations Security Council Open Debate on the Situation in the Middle East including the Palestinian Question.
Addressing the deep suffering unfolding in Gaza and across Palestine because of the Israeli military aggression, the Maldives echoed the international community’s calls for an immediate ceasefire, the establishment of a humanitarian corridor, and an end to mass forced displacement in Gaza and protect the civilian population. The Maldives reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Palestinian people in their legitimate quest for inalienable rights, including self-determination.
Further, the Maldives expressed grave concern over the Security Council's failure to act swiftly and decisively to end the exacerbating crisis and emphasised the importance of upholding Security Council Resolutions 476 and 478, nullifying actions altering Jerusalem's status, and Resolution 2334, distinguishing Israel's territories post-1967.
As a demonstration of its solidarity with the people of Palestine, the Maldives announced that President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih decided to send 2 million cans of tuna to Palestine.
In conclusion, the Maldives reiterated its long-standing position that a lasting solution to the conflict can only be achieved through the internationally accepted “two-State solution”, with the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian State based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
ENDS