The Global Sumud Flotilla, a peaceful international humanitarian initiative advocating for the rights and relief of Gaza’s besieged population, held high-level meetings with Maldivian officials during its visit to the archipelago nation.
On 7 January, the delegation—comprising senior steering committee members Thiago Ávila, Saif Abukeshek, Nadir Al-Nuri and Kleoniki Alexopoulou—met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel and the Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla.
The meetings, facilitated by the International Aid Campaign (IAC), highlighted Maldives’ steadfast support for the Palestinian cause. Minister Khaleel welcomed the delegation, commending their efforts to spotlight the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Speaker Abdul Raheem praised the flotilla’s commitment to justice and human dignity, reaffirming that Maldives, under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, continues to champion Palestinian rights globally. He also noted the President’s swift approval of a bill banning entry for Israeli passport holders—a significant stance for a tourism-dependent nation.
The flotilla’s visit includes engagements with government bodies, civil society, and stakeholders to share their mission, experiences, and future plans for ensuring freedom of navigation and unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.
Initiated in July 2025, the Global Sumud Flotilla remains a nonviolent, civilian-led movement dedicated to upholding international law and alleviating suffering in Gaza, resonating strongly with Maldives’ own humanitarian principles.