Forex & Salaries: The Maldives Monetary Authority says there’s no legal barrier for resorts and businesses to keep paying employee salaries in U.S. Dollars, even after the 40% USD-earnings deposit rule—while stressing a longer-term push to preserve the rufiyaa and reduce dollar use domestically. Tourism & Public Finance: MMA data shows tourism tax and fee inflows rose 6% in the first half of 2026, but reserves fell to USD 686.8m by June as external debt servicing surged, including major Sukuk repayment. Palestine Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam urged OIC members to move beyond statements and take decisive action on Palestinian rights, calling for accountability for Israel’s violations and support for a pre-1967 Palestinian state. Thilafushi Port Tender: Maldives Ports Limited opened a tender for facilities needed for the Thilafushi Port Development Project, with applications due 10 September and relocation targeted for next year. Pensions Clarified: The Pension Administration Office reiterated that pension contributions must be paid in rufiyaa even when salaries are in USD. Opposition & Courts: Two people were sentenced to short prison terms after confessing to the engine oil attack on MDP activist Mariyam “Mandhy” Zubair. MDP Leadership: Hisaan Hussain resigned as MDP vice president, citing the party charter’s nomination-based mandate. Legal Update: The High Court dismissed MIRA’s inclusion in an appeal over a procedural decision by the tax tribunal. Thilafhoo City Status Probe: Police referred the Thinadhoo population fraud case to the Prosecutor General’s Office for possible criminal charges. Tourism Tax Expansion: Parliament approved extending tourism tax obligations to overseas booking platforms and tour operators, based on where the tourism service is supplied.