Vilimale MP and Deputy PG Leader of the People’s National Congress (PNC), Mohamed Ismail, has characterized President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu as the most steadfast advocate for Palestinian rights in the Maldives’ recent history. Speaking on a program broadcast by MMTV, Ismail highlighted the President’s firm international stance and his commitment to protecting the rights of the Palestinian people.

Ismail lauded the administration’s decision to ban Israeli passports, describing it as a courageous move that reflects a robust foreign policy against the humanitarian violations and genocide being committed against Palestinians. He noted that President Muizzu has been exceptionally clear in his position that the Maldives will maintain no diplomatic relations with the state of Israel.

The MP further leveled sharp criticism at previous Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) administrations, specifically pointing to the tenure of former President Mohamed Nasheed. He recalled that in 2011, then-Foreign Minister Ahmed Naseem made the first official state visit to Israel, an action he described as a significant departure from the Maldives’ traditional stance.

Recalling historical diplomatic inconsistencies, Ismail cited an incident in 2011 where the Maldivian delegation reportedly left Paris abruptly to avoid voting on Palestine’s membership in UNESCO. He further mentioned that following Nasheed’s 2013 election loss, the ‘Times of Israel’ had labeled him a friend of the state. Ismail concluded by asserting that in the age of modern technology, past records cannot be erased, challenging the sincerity of the current opposition’s pro-Palestine rhetoric.