The Maldives has raised serious concerns at the Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) over Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, warning that the move violates international law and undermines Somalia’s sovereignty.

Addressing the 22nd Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Jeddah, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel said the decision constituted a clear breach of Somalia’s territorial integrity and contradicted the principles of the United Nations Charter.

He stressed that the unilateral recognition of Somaliland runs counter to established international norms and carries the risk of further destabilising an already fragile region. Dr Khaleel noted that the development comes at a time of heightened global and regional tensions, particularly amid the ongoing situation in Palestine.

The foreign minister also criticised Israel’s actions during the current ceasefire in Gaza, stating that they demonstrate a continued disregard for international law.

He cautioned that the weakening of a rules-based international order poses serious risks, especially for small states like the Maldives that rely on international law to protect their sovereignty and independence.

The extraordinary session of the OIC was convened to discuss the implications of Israel’s decision and its broader impact on the Muslim world.

The OIC, comprising 57 member states, has long served as a platform for addressing issues affecting Muslim nations, including advocacy for the rights of Palestinians.

The Maldives has been a member of the Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation since 1976 and has consistently aligned itself with the bloc on matters related to international law, state sovereignty, and the Palestinian cause.