VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The government is “all hands on deck” to shield Malta from the fallout of escalating conflict in the Gulf, Prime Minister Robert Abela told parliament. Abela’s remarks came after a joint US-Israel strikes on Iran triggered retaliatory attacks across the region, raising fears of wider instability and economic disruption. “I want to assure everyone that we, as a government, are all hands on deck,” he said, stressing unity and resolve in the face of global uncertainty.
Reiterating Malta’s call for a permanent ceasefire and dialogue, Abela said the country would remain firm and decisive while upholding its longstanding neutrality. He warned of possible international economic repercussions, particularly following a spike in oil prices, but said government subsidies on energy and fuel had helped stabilise costs and sustain economic growth.
“We know that the current international situation can change everything,” he said. “We will remain focused on the country’s needs and ready to counter its impacts.”
About 130 Maltese nationals in the Gulf have contacted authorities seeking assistance to leave. Consular officials are advising them to take precautions and remain in their residences.
Abela said Foreign Minister Ian Borg had expressed solidarity with UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah Al Nahyan and Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al Thani, thanking them for assisting stranded Maltese citizens, including those with expired visas. Opposition leader Alex Borg pledged full support to the government, urging unity over partisanship. “Now is not the time for division, but for collaboration,” Borg said, adding that the safety of Maltese citizens in the Middle East remained the top priority.
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