Maldives welcomes ceasefire in Lebanon

The Government of Maldives has welcomed the announcement by the United States of a ceasefire arrangement in the Lebanon.

A statement by the Foreign Ministry read that Maldives views this development as a positive step toward de-escalation in the region and underscores the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring freedom of navigation to facilitate the uninterrupted flow of global trade.

The Maldivian government further acknowledged and appreciated the significant roles played by the Government of Lebanon and the United States in facilitating the ceasefire.

It reaffirmed its support for all efforts undertaken by the international community to restore peace and stability in the region, citing the ceasefire presents opportunity for dialogue and diplomacy to prevail, ultimately contributing to a lasting and peaceful resolution to the conflict.

A US-brokered 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect early on Friday.

Even in the final hours preceding the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces continued to carry out airstrikes across multiple regions of southern Lebanon. Subsequently, Hezbollah announced that it had conducted intensive retaliatory operations targeting Israeli military personnel positioned within Lebanese territory and along the border areas.