Israel

Sun English Edition | 22 hours, 42 minutes ago | optimistic

Araghchi says draft US-Iran deal to be inked 'remotely', warns of Israeli sabotage

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that a draft deal with the US will be signed remotely in the coming days. The 'Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding' aims to end the war that started on February 28, 2026. Araghchi stated the agreement includes lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and managing the Strait of Hormuz. He warned of potential Israeli sabotage. US President Donald Trump called off planned strikes and indicated a deal could be signed soon. The deal includes a 60-day period for discussing Iran's nuclear program.

The Standard | 8 months, 4 weeks ago | concerned

President Muizzu condemns Israeli aggression at Arab-Islamic Summit, declares attack on Qatar an attack on all

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu delivered a speech at the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit in Doha, condemning Israel's recent attack on Qatar and expressing solidarity with Qatar and Palestine. He called the attack a 'deliberate, calculated assault on peace' and urged Arab and Islamic nations to take coordinated action, including legal accountability, economic and diplomatic measures, and expanded humanitarian aid. The President emphasized that the Maldives stands with Qatar and rejects Israel's actions as crimes against humanity.

Maldives Republic | 11 months, 1 week ago | urgent

New UN Report Names Companies Enabling Israel’s Genocide in Gaza

A new UN report by Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese names dozens of major corporations, including Lockheed Martin, Elbit Systems, Microsoft, Amazon, and Palantir, for enabling Israel's actions in Gaza, describing their complicity as an 'economy of genocide.' The report, presented at the UN Human Rights Council on July 3, 2025, details how companies provided weapons, cloud infrastructure, AI, and surveillance technologies that sustained military operations. It lists approximately 1,000 corporate actors, with 45 entities informed directly; only 15 responded. The report warns of automated warfare and calls for an end to corporate profiteering from the conflict.

Maldives Republic | 11 months, 3 weeks ago | tense

Fayyaz Slams US-Israel Strike on Iran, Says UN Enables Genocide, Calls for Muslim Unity

MDP chairperson and opposition leader Fayyaz Ismail strongly condemned US-Israel airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in a post on X. He accused the US and Israel of aggression against the Muslim world, criticized the UN for enabling genocide, and called for Muslim unity. Fayyaz argued that the UN is no longer a guardian of peace and that new alliances based on faith and values are needed. His remarks were widely shared and praised across political lines.

Maldives Republic | 11 months, 4 weeks ago | tense

Past Ties Suggest Israel-Iran Rapprochement Not Impossible

An analysis of Israel-Iran relations notes past clandestine ties despite current hostility. Israeli PM Netanyahu seeks regime change in Iran, while Supreme Leader Khamenei aims to eliminate Israel. Israel launched 'Operation Rising Lion' allegedly targeting Iran's Natanz nuclear site, but IAEA said radiation levels unchanged. National Security Adviser Hanegbi doubts military can destroy nuclear program but hopes to create conditions for a US deal. US-Iran talks mediated by Oman are scheduled for 15 June. Trump urged Iran to make a deal.

Maldives Republic | 11 months, 4 weeks ago | concerned

Maldives Condemns Israeli Aggression Against Iran, Urges International Action to Prevent Escalation

The Maldives condemned Israel's attack on Iran as a violation of international law threatening regional peace, urging international action. The statement highlighted Israel's disregard for international law and called for coordinated de-escalation. The article also details the ongoing Gaza conflict, with 62,000 Palestinians killed since October 7, 2023, including 17,400 children, and extensive infrastructure damage. Human rights groups have accused Israel of weaponising starvation, and the ICC has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders. The article also notes Israeli settler violence in the West Bank.

The Standard | 11 months, 4 weeks ago | concerned

Oil Prices Surge Amid Israel–Iran Strikes: What It Means for the Maldives

Rising Israel-Iran tensions have caused Brent crude prices to surge 7-11% since June 13, from $67-68 to mid-$70s per barrel. Analysts warn further escalation could push oil above $100, especially if the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted. For the Maldives, heavily dependent on imported fuel (fuel imports were $507 million in 2022, 20% of total imports), sustained high oil prices would widen the budget deficit and strain reserves. Short-term measures like subsidies are considered, but renewable energy transition is seen as a long-term solution. Markets price a 17% chance of a wider supply shock.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 1 month ago | neutral

Israeli Passport Ban Takes Effect in Maldives — But Dual Nationals Still Allowed Entry

The Maldives enforced a ban on Israeli passport holders on Tuesday, but a loophole allows dual nationals with another passport to enter. The law was passed unanimously by Parliament and signed by President Muizzu. Critics say the ban is largely symbolic as most Israelis have dual citizenship. The move follows a June 2024 Cabinet decision amid public pressure over Israel's actions in Gaza. Opposition MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem proposed a full ban but the final version was weakened. Attorney General Ahmed Usham cited legal challenges. Public outrage continues.

The Standard | 1 year, 2 months ago | concerned

President Muizzu Government: ‘Israel Must Be Held Accountable for Crimes in Gaza’

The Maldivian government condemned Israel's airstrikes in Gaza that killed over 400 Palestinians, calling for accountability and an end to violence. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed support for Palestinian statehood with East Jerusalem as capital. The government also banned Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives in protest of the war in Gaza.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 3 months ago | concerned

Maldives Condemns Israel’s Blockade of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

The Maldives government condemned Israel's decision to halt humanitarian aid entry into Gaza, calling it a 'blatant violation' of the ceasefire agreement, international human rights law, and international humanitarian law. The statement, released on Monday, urged the international community to take swift action and activate accountability mechanisms. The Maldives reaffirmed support for Palestinian rights and called for a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 3 months ago | concerned

Maldives Submits Statement to ICJ on Israel’s Obligations in Occupied Palestinian Territory

The Maldives has filed a written statement at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in advisory proceedings on Israel's obligations concerning the presence and activities of the UN and other international organizations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The proceedings follow a UN General Assembly resolution adopted on 19 December 2024. The Maldives' submission focuses on Israel's violations of international humanitarian law, particularly regarding water access, and criticizes Israel for dismantling UNRWA, settlement expansion, and attacks on aid workers. The Maldives reaffirmed support for a Palestinian state with pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as capital.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 5 months ago | concerned

Maldives Condemns Israel’s Burning of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Northern Gaza

The Maldives strongly condemned the burning of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza by Israeli forces, calling it a war crime and a violation of international law. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the UN Security Council to take action. The Maldives reaffirmed support for a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as capital based on pre-1967 borders. Since October 7, 2023, Israel's war on Gaza has killed over 45,000 Palestinians, wounded 108,000, destroyed 85% of civilian infrastructure, and blocked aid, starving 2.5 million people.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 6 months ago | concerned

Israel Issues Elevated Travel Warning Against Maldives

Israel raised its travel warning for the Maldives from Level 2 (Potential Threat) to Level 3 (Moderate Threat Level), citing the presence of terror sympathizers and increased hostility towards Israelis and Jews. The advisory recommends avoiding non-essential travel. Similar warnings were raised for Armenia and relaxed for Brazil. The Maldives has held protests against Israel's war in Gaza. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on 21 November for war crimes. Meanwhile, the Maldivian Parliament is deliberating a non-partisan amendment to ban Israeli citizens from entering the country, currently at committee stage.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 6 months ago | tense

Minister Says Maldives Government Will Abide by ICC Warrant on Netanyahu Amid Hypocrisy Allegations Over Israel Policy

Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusaan stated that the Maldives will enforce the ICC arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This comes amid criticism over the government's failure to implement a promised ban on Israeli passport holders, announced in June. Opposition leader Fayyaz Ismail accused President Muizzu of inaction. The ICC issued warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas's Mohammed Zaif. The ruling PNC party voted against expediting amendments for the ban. Public protests and increased Israeli tourist arrivals have fueled accusations of hypocrisy.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 6 months ago | concerned

PNC PG Leader Calls for Broader Consultation on Israeli Passport Ban Amid Stalled Legislation

Ibrahim Falah, leader of the ruling PNC parliamentary group, called for broader consultation with Palestinians, Arab nations, and other major countries before moving forward with a bill to ban Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives. The bill, introduced by opposition MDP five months ago, followed a Cabinet announcement in June but has stalled. Critics highlight government inconsistencies: while the Cabinet pledged the ban, progress has stalled, and the government arrested protesters under public order laws. Attorney General Ahmed Usham raised concerns about practical implementation issues.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 6 months ago | optimistic

241 Committee Greenlights Expediting Consideration of ‘Israeli Passport Ban’ Bill

Parliament's Committee on National Security Services (241 Committee) approved expediting consideration of the 'Israeli Passport Ban' bill, introduced five months ago by opposition MDP. The committee will hold hearings starting Monday, 25 November 2024, with a completion deadline of 25 February 2025. The bill, which amends the Immigration Act (2007), was proposed by MP Meekail Ahmed Nasym. President Muizzu announced his intention to impose the ban on 2 June, and the ruling PNC called for expediting on 16 October. Attorney General Ahmed Usham stated that the bill needs amendments to align with Cabinet decisions.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 6 months ago | tense

Muizzu Hails ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Amid Backlash Over ‘Hypocrisy’ on Israel Ban

President Mohamed Muizzu welcomed the ICC arrest warrant for Israeli PM Netanyahu, calling it a crucial step for war crimes accountability. However, the government faces backlash for failing to implement a promised ban on Israeli passport holders, with the ruling PNC rejecting a motion to expedite amendments to the Immigration Act. Critics highlight hypocrisy between Muizzu's rhetoric and inaction.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 7 months ago | urgent

Maldives Condemns Israeli Strikes on Iran, Urges Immediate De-Escalation

The Maldives condemned Israeli military strikes on Iran, calling them a breach of sovereignty and violation of international law. In a statement on Saturday, the Foreign Ministry urged immediate de-escalation and called on all parties to show restraint. The article also details recent history: Israeli strikes on Iranian military bases caused 'limited damage'; Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei stated Iran was not involved in the 7 October attack; in December, IRGC members were killed in Syria; in April, Israel struck Iran's consulate in Damascus; on 13 April, Iran launched drones and missiles at Israel; on 31 July, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Iran; on 1 October, Iran fired missiles at Israel. The Maldives appealed to the international community to facilitate a ceasefire.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 10 months ago | tense

Ex-President Yameen Slams MFA Statement on Haniyeh Assassination for Not Condemning Israel

Former President Abdulla Yameen criticized the Muizzu administration for not condemning Israel in the statement on Ismail Haniyeh's assassination. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) statement condemned the assassination but did not name Israel as responsible. Yameen's People's National Front (PNF) questioned the independence of Maldives' foreign policy. Yameen also accused Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer of complicity for visiting the US, seen as Israel's protector. The Muizzu administration had previously committed to banning Israeli passport holders but failed to follow through.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 10 months ago | urgent

Israel’s Assassinations Fuel Escalation in Middle East

Israeli assassinations of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr, Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif have escalated tensions. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah declared a 'new phase' of war. Haniyeh's funeral in Tehran, led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, featured vows of revenge. Iranian officials reportedly ordered direct strikes on Israel. The Gaza war has drawn in Iran-backed groups from Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. The ceasefire talks are now complicated. Israel has killed over 39,000 Palestinians since October 7, including 15 in a school airstrike.