Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusan has hit back at former President Abdulla Yameen following his criticism of the Rasmale' Eagle Hills project, accusing him of creating religious rifts for political gain. 

In a post shared on X today, Yameen compared the Rasmale' project to "a Jewish settlement", and called on Eagle Hills to scrap the project. 

Ihusan quoted Yameen's post, and stated that, "Calling this project a 'Jewish settlement' is a blatant distortion of facts and a disgraceful attempt to exploit religious sentiments for political gain". 

Ihusan called on the former president to refrain from abusing the Maldivian people's unwavering support for Palestine as a political weapon to spread fear, hatred and misinformation. 

"Just because this investment did not materialize under your presidency does not give you the right to demonize it today. National development must never become hostage to personal political bitterness," Ihusan wrote. 

The Home Minister welcomed criticism and comments on policies, but drew the line at using such matters as a smokescreen to create religious divisions and rifts. 

"The Maldives deserves responsible leadership, not reckless fearmongering."

Ruling People's National Congress (PNC) Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla also earlier responded to Yameen's remarks. Abdul Raheem stated that the Maldivian people are far more intelligent and wise to 'dance to just any tune'. He said that Maldivians think deeply of their nation, and are well-versed in the difference between good and bad.

"With God's gracious will, the Rasmale' project will not be stopped. God willing, this major project will commence soon during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's term. This project will be carried out in accordance with the Constitution and Laws of the Republic of Maldives. In the future, Maldivians will receive true benefits from this," Abdul Raheem wrote. 

Yameen has been an ardent critic of the Rasmale' marina project. Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, meanwhile, generally expressed concerns regarding the failure to publicize the terms and details of the agreement with Eagle Hills. Former President Mohamed Nasheed's outlook on the project is that, in principle, it is right. He, too, stated that details of the agreement must be released, and expressed a preference to move the project outside of the Greater Male' area.