The Maldives government has sought clarification from India after Indian coast guard personnel boarded three Maldivian fishing vessels operating in the Maldives’ economic zone without prior consultation. The Maldives defense ministry stated that it received information on Wednesday that personnel from a foreign military had boarded a Maldivian fishing vessel, and upon reaching the location, it was discovered that they were from the Indian coast guard. The incident adds strain to the relationship between the two nations, particularly since the Maldives elected a pro-China leader in November 2023, leading to conflicts and concerns about influence in the Indian Ocean region.