Maldives denounces Israeli minister’s entry into Al-Aqsa Mosque, calls for global accountability

The Maldivian government has issued a strong condemnation following the entry of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and a group of settlers into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem.

The incident occurred on Wednesday during the Jewish festival of Sukkot, and was accompanied by a heavy Israeli military and police presence. Ben-Gvir reportedly led a prayer service within the compound, breaching the longstanding status quo that governs access to one of Islam’s holiest sites.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Maldives described the intrusion as a “blatant violation of international law” and a “deliberate provocation” aimed at undermining the sanctity, legal status, and religious significance of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

“This repeated violation is not only an assault on the inalienable religious rights of the Palestinian people, but also a direct affront to Muslims around the world,” the statement read.

The government called on the international community to take decisive action to hold Israel accountable for its human rights violations and to safeguard Islamic religious sites. It reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Palestinian people and urged global actors to uphold their responsibility in ensuring the dignity, rights, and security of Palestinians.

The Maldives has consistently voiced support for Palestinian sovereignty and condemned actions that threaten religious harmony and international norms.