President Mohamed Muizzu has encouraged Iran to attack US military bases in the Gulf Arab states.

At a press conference at the President's Office this morning (March 23), Muizzu said he supports targeting US military bases in Gulf Arab states without harming the citizens.

"The two initiators of this war, the US and Israel, their places [military bases] must be attacked in a way that does not harm the Muslims in the region. That is the policy of the Maldivian government," he said.

However, he condemned Iran's attacks on the Gulf Arab states, which continue to harm the citizens.

"Muslims will die when they attack Muslim, Arab countries. Places that belong to Muslims will be destroyed,” he said.

His comments come at a time when a senior US government official is visiting the Maldives.

The US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Sergio Gor, has requested a meeting with Muizzu as well.

At today's press conference, Muizzu said the Maldives has nothing to discuss with the US about the ongoing war. He added that the Maldives would not provide any assistance to the US in any matters connected to the war.

"I want to see what he wants to talk about. If he talks about this war, I have nothing to say. No territory in the country will be available to use for this war or any other war. It won't happen," Muizzu said.

While Muizzu encouraged Iran to attack US military bases, he previously condemned Iran for targeting the Gulf Arab states. In a statement, the Foreign Ministry also "condemned attacks by all sides."

On Monday morning (March 23), Muizzu also called for attacks on Israel "day and night. He said he wanted Iran to launch stronger attacks on Israel.

"The war must stop immediately. Anyone who attacks in that war is not making the right choice. If Iran attacks, it should attack Israel directly. That's what we believe. Israel should be attacked day and night. We really want it to go that way."