The Maldives is today celebrating Victory Day — a national occasion that honours the courage and sacrifice of those who defended the country during the 3 November 1988 terrorist attack.

On that day, armed militants belonging to the People's Liberation of Tamil Eelam (PLOT), aided by local conspirators, launched a surprise assault on Malé in an attempt to overthrow the government of then-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

Nineteen Maldivians, including eight soldiers and eleven civilians, lost their lives defending the capital. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Maldives National Defence Force (then known as the National Security Service) fought back and successfully repelled the attackers. The surviving terrorists fled the country after hijacking a vessel and taking hostages. Indian forces, responding to a request for assistance, rescued the hostages and brought the situation under control.

Victory Day is marked with national pride and remembrance. The day began with Fajr prayer, followed by a flag-hoisting and guard-mounting ceremony at the Victory Day Monument in Malé.

At the official ceremony, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu presented a commemorative shield to former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and to the families of the martyrs who lost their lives on that day.

Victory Day stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of the Maldivian people.