1 June 2010
The Maldives is greatly saddened by the loss of civilian life in the Gaza-bound aid flotilla and wishes to extend its condolences to all those affected by the incident. The Maldives condemns in the strongest possible terms this clear act of aggression against civilians, especially civilians engaged in humanitarian work. There can be no excuse for such violence, which represents a violation of international humanitarian and human rights law and a step-back from universal humanist values.
The Maldives calls for an immediate independent international enquiry into the incident so that the facts may be ascertained, accountability established, and justice secured for those who have tragically died, as well as their family and friends.
More broadly, this incident reminds us of the grave injustice that is being done to the people of Gaza by the Israeli blockade. That blockade is not only morally wrong as it inflicts unjustifiable harm on innocent civilians – but is also short-sighted in that it breeds mistrust, animosity and hatred – exactly the emotions that led to this tragedy and to the perpetuation of the Middle East conflict. The Maldives reiterates its call for Israel to immediately lift its siege of Gaza.
Ends
