The Maldives has strongly condemned a recent call by an Israeli minister to construct a synagogue at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, a proposal deemed highly provocative by the Maldivian government.

In an official statement, the Maldives emphasized the historical and religious significance of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, noting its importance to over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide and its status as a key site in Islamic pilgrimage. The government denounced the proposal as undermining efforts to achieve peace in Gaza and as an affront to the sentiments of the global Muslim community.

"The Government of the Republic of Maldives condemns and denounces in the strongest terms the recent statement by an Israeli Minister calling for the construction of a synagogue inside the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque. The Al-Aqsa Mosque holds immense spiritual and historical significance for over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. It is not only a revered place of worship, but also a symbol of Islamic heritage. The Government of Maldives calls on the Government of Israel to respect the historical and legal status of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions."

The Maldives has called on the international community to reject any actions that might alter the legal and historical status of sacred sites such as the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The statement further urged global actors to take decisive steps to protect the rights of the Palestinian people and to support efforts towards a just resolution of the ongoing conflict.

"The Maldives calls on the international community to urgently intervene to prevent any action that could change the legal status in Jerusalem and its holy sites and take all necessary measures to protect the rights of the Palestinian people. The Government of Maldives stands in firm solidarity with the Palestinian people in the pursuit of their inherent right to self-determination and remains committed to its calls for the establishment of a sovereign and independent State of Palestine, as per the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital."

The Maldivian government’s response underscores its stance on maintaining the sanctity of religious sites and its commitment to advocating for the rights and protection of Palestinians amidst heightened tensions in the region.