Former President Mohamed Nasheed has criticised the United States for failing to provide Gulf countries with adequate security amid tensions in the region.
In a post on X, Nasheed said the war in the Middle East is approaching its end, creating an opportunity for regional interests to shift.
“The interests of West Asia have changed. The tension between Iran and the Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, has eased, opening the path for stronger relations,” he wrote.
However, he expressed doubts about the role of foreign powers, particularly the US.
“The United States has failed to provide the Gulf countries with the full security they need,” Nasheed said.
“The idea of these countries working outside the protection of the United States is not new.”
Nasheed noted that the Gulf nations have had similar experiences in the past and suggested it is feasible for them to secure their own defence independently.
His comments come as Iran has carried out retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli targets in the Gulf, including military bases, amid heightened regional tensions.
Nasheed has also highlighted the broader implications of the conflict for Maldives, particularly disruptions to global fuel markets.
Earlier this month, he called for measures to prevent the Maldives from experiencing fuel shortages.
Iran’s attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have halted oil shipments and caused global oil prices to spike.
