Maldives Rejects “Requests” to Use Its Airspace for Military Strikes in Middle East Conflict

In a firm declaration of neutrality, the government has revealed that it had refused requests from foreign nations to utilise its airspace to launch military attacks in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. 

The announcement was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel during a press conference convened by the Special Cabinet Committee, established to address the wide-ranging implications of the regional war.

The committee, chaired by Minister Khaleel, was formed in direct response to the escalating tensions and military engagements, including Iran’s attacks on US bases, which were in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes. 

The government’s primary focus, according to the Minister, is on mitigating the economic and national security challenges the conflict poses to the Indian Ocean archipelago.

Addressing the media, Minister Khaleel was unequivocal in outlining the nation's stance. 

"We are rejecting such requests. We will not allow any country to use Maldivian airspace for such purposes," he stated firmly. 

He confirmed that while the Maldives' airspace has not been used to attack any country, his office had received and denied offers for its use in such operations, though he did not specify which nations had made the requests.

Beyond the immediate security concerns, Minister Khaleel detailed the economic fallout being addressed by the committee. 

With the closure of main tourist routes and potential disruptions to vital supplies, the government is proactively seeking alternative markets to secure the nation's oil and food imports and to safeguard its critical tourism industry, he said.