The Maldives has vehemently denounced the airstrike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls’ School in Minab, Iran, a strike that resulted in the deaths of 168 children, labeling it a serious breach of international humanitarian and human rights law.

During a critical discussion at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council on Friday, Dr. Salma Rasheed, the Maldives’ Permanent Representative in Geneva, expressed that the Government was "concerned" about the rising tensions in the Middle East after military actions launched by Israel and the United States targeting Iran.

The Maldives stated that Israel, regarded as a habitual offender of international law and a backer of state terrorism, continues to be at the heart of escalating conflict, adding to instability throughout the GCC region, Jordan, Palestine, and Lebanon.

The Government emphasized the importance of concluding the “longstanding culture of impunity” that has permitted ongoing violations of international humanitarian law, calling on the international community to enhance efforts to reduce tensions, safeguard civilians, and guarantee accountability.

The debate on Friday was the second urgent discussion conducted at the Council this week. The initial event on 25 March concentrated on the military aggression that occurred on 28 February against Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and Jordan.

The Maldives made remarks during both sessions, reaffirming its dedication to the UN Charter and its responsibilities under international agreements.

This recent statement signifies a change in perspective from the Maldives’ earlier stance this month, when Dr. Salma criticized Iran’s missile strikes on the Maldives’ “brotherly nations” in the Gulf, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, in light of Tehran’s regional escalation. She deemed Iran’s actions “unacceptable” and advocated for restraint to avoid additional destabilisation.