After earlier criticism of Iran, Maldives finally condemns attack on girls’ school

The Maldives has strongly condemned the aerial attack on Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls’ School in Minab, Iran, an assault that killed 168 children, calling it a grave violation of international humanitarian and human rights law.

Speaking during an urgent debate at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council on Friday, the Maldives’ Permanent Representative in Geneva, Dr. Salma Rasheed, said the Government was “alarmed” by the escalating conflict in the Middle East following military attacks initiated by Israel and the United States against Iran.

The Maldives said Israel, described as a serial violator of international law and a sponsor of state terrorism, remains at the centre of fuelling the conflict, contributing to instability across the GCC region, Jordan, Palestine and Lebanon.

The Government stressed the need to end the “longstanding culture of impunity” that has enabled repeated breaches of international humanitarian law, urging the international community to intensify efforts to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians, and ensure accountability.

Friday’s debate was the second emergency discussion held at the Council this week. The first, on 25 March, focused on the 28 February military aggression against Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain and Jordan.

The Maldives delivered statements at both sessions, reiterating its commitment to the UN Charter and its obligations under international treaties.

This latest statement marks a shift in focus from the Maldives’ earlier position this month, when Dr. Salma condemned Iran’s missile attacks on the Maldives’ “brotherly nations” in the Gulf, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, following Tehran’s regional escalation. At the time, she called Iran’s actions “unacceptable” and urged restraint to prevent further destabilisation.