In a statement shared on Twitter, Malik said he wanted to create "a place where

private family matters aren't thrown on the world stage for all to poke and pick apart,"
adding that the incident "was and still should be a private matter."

Multiple sources confirmed to PEOPLE Malik was referencing Yolanda in his social
media statement.

Zayn Malik and Gigi Hadid

 
| CREDIT: DARREN GERRISH/WIREIMAGE

RELATED: Baby Makes 3! Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik's Relationship History,

from Vogue Covers to Parenthood

The exes share baby Khai, who's now 13 months old. In September, the couple threw
her a birthday bash — and several family members honored her with emotional
tributes.
The couple first sparked romance rumors in November 2015 when they stepped out
together at an American Music Awards afterparty.

After dodging questions about their romance for several months, Hadid then starred in
Malik's PDA-filled music video for his 2016 single "PillowTalk."