Hundreds of Maldivians attended the national mass rally held in the Maldivian capital, advocating for the rights of Palestinians.
Protestors called for the immediate cessation of Israel’s aggression and genocide during the rally held at Maafannu Stadium in Male’ on Friday evening. They also called on Israel to lift the blockades and allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Maldivians attend mass rally in Male' in support of Palestinians on August 15, 2025. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)
The rally was attended by several cabinet ministers, Palestinians residing in the Maldives and Maldivians of all ages.
At the rally, religious scholars and event organizers took the stage to voice their support and solidarity with the Palestinian people. Islamic Minister Dr. Shaheem Ali Saeed also delivered remarks during the rally.
The rally was concluded with a special dua praying for the safety of Palestinians.
Islamic Minister Dr. Shaheem Ali Saeed speaks at mass rally in Male' in support of Palestinians on August 15, 2025. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)
Notably, rallies were held across several islands as well in support of Palestinians.
Maldives has always been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of Palestinians including at the United Nations and other international platforms.
Rallies have been held across the country in support of Palestinians on previous occasions as well.
According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, nearly 61,600 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since October 2023.
Israeli occupation government has recently come under scrutiny for the ‘‘Greater Israel’ plan, which envisions the expansion of Israeli settlements.
Maldivians attend mass rally in Male' in support of Palestinians on August 15, 2025. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)
In an interview with i24News aired on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was asked whether he “feels a connection” to the idea of “Greater Israel,” to which he replied: “Very much.” He further stated that he sees himself “on a historic and spiritual mission” that links “generations of Jews that dreamt of coming here and generations of Jews who will come after us.”
Netanyahu’s comments come as the war in Gaza continues unabated, alongside previous statements in which he has suggested an intention to remove Palestinians from the territory.
Meanwhile, Israel continues to face global criticism, including an arrest warrant for Netanyahu issued by the International Criminal Court over alleged war crimes, and a genocide case pending before the International Court of Justice.