The Maldives’ foreign minister, Moosa Zameer, announced that 76 Indian military personnel deployed in Hanimaadhoo, Kadhdhoo, and Gan have been replaced by civilian personnel sent by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The Indian soldiers’ withdrawal began in March and concluded in May, with the civilian crew expected to depart in April 2026, as per the terms of the letter of exchange signed between Maldives and India.