Maldives has strongly criticised Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir for his recent visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque, calling it a provocative act that violates international law and disrespects the rights of Palestinians and Muslims worldwide.

The incident, which took place on 27 December 2024 under heavy police protection, marks Ben-Gvir’s fifth visit to the mosque since joining Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. His visit coincided with the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah and has been widely condemned as an attempt to provoke tensions.

Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in occupied East Jerusalem, is Islam’s third-holiest site and is also revered by Jews as the Temple Mount. The Maldives expressed concern over Israel’s ongoing efforts to change the site’s religious and historical status. These actions, the Government warned, risk escalating conflicts in the region and undermining Palestinian rights.

The Maldives called on the international community to protect religious sites and uphold international law. It also reaffirmed its support for an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

This latest incident highlights the need for urgent global action to safeguard peace and preserve the sanctity of holy sites.