President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the Government has commenced efforts to closely monitor the situation in the Middle East and mitigate any potential impact the tensions may have on the Maldives and its citizens. He made the statement at a press briefing held at the President's Office today.
He stated that the Special Cabinet Committee, established in response to the situation, is closely monitoring the status of Maldivians living in the affected countries, adding that no safety risks have been identified at this time. He affirmed that the necessary arrangements were underway should evacuation measures become necessary. The President also noted that steps were being taken to reroute travel for those unable to depart from or arrive in the Maldives due to the closure of Middle Eastern airspace.
President Dr Muizzu assured that there is currently no risk of fuel or food shortages, noting that a new fuel shipment from Oman had departed on 28 February, with work underway to secure additional shipments.
Emphasising that building national resilience is the current priority, the President stated that measures are being taken to safeguard tourism, adjust travel routes, and enhance the national airline's capacity.
The President reiterated that Arab and Islamic nations are working in solidarity during this critical time. He described the loss of even a single Muslim life as a profound loss for the entire Islamic Ummah.
In response to a query regarding reports of a US military aircraft landing at Velana International Airport, the President clarified that the aircraft was a civilian craft en route from Seychelles to Thailand, which had been permitted to land after seeking the required permissions on 17 January.
At this year's Presidential Address, the President stated that, barring official travel, public holidays, or unforeseen scheduling conflicts, he will meet with the press every Monday morning from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., with today's briefing marking the first of its kind.
