Government of Maldives has welcomed the application submitted by the Republic of South Africa to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on December 29, 2023. The application seeks a declaration that Israel is in breach of the 1948 "Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide."
The Government of Maldives acknowledges the ongoing military actions by the Israeli military, resulting in the loss of lives, especially among innocent Palestinian civilians, including women and children. The statement emphasizes the Maldivian government's view that these acts represent a blatant disregard for international humanitarian law, including the Convention on Genocide.
The Government of Maldives has reiterated its call for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of humanitarian corridors to facilitate the delivery of assistance to the affected people in Palestine.
Furthermore, the Maldives has urged the International Court of Justice to expedite its response to enable swift action against any acts and measures that are in violation of international human rights and humanitarian law.
The government of Maldives has expressed its belief that a just and lasting solution to the Middle East conflict lies in a two-state solution. This solution, according to the Maldives, should involve the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian State with pre-1967 borders, designating East Jerusalem as its capital. The Maldives calls for international attention and support to achieve this resolution for lasting peace in the region.