In a bold move of solidarity with the besieged people of Gaza, the Maldives government has announced a ban on Israeli passport holders from entering the Indian Ocean archipelago. President Mohamed Muizzu’s office stated that the ban reflects the nation’s stance against the ongoing war in Gaza and the suffering faced by its residents.
The ban, yet to be detailed in terms of implementation, marks a significant step as public anger in the predominantly Muslim nation grows over the escalating conflict in Gaza. President Muizzu also unveiled a national fundraising campaign named “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine” to further demonstrate support for the Palestinian cause.
The decision comes amidst a significant decline in Israeli tourist arrivals to the Maldives. Official data reveals a staggering 88 percent drop in Israeli visitors during the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year. The move to ban Israelis follows pressure from opposition parties and government allies, reflecting widespread sentiment against the Gaza war.
While the Maldives had previously lifted a ban on Israeli tourists in the early 1990s and attempted to restore relations in 2010, efforts for normalization were thwarted after political upheavals in 2012.
In response to the ban, an Israel foreign ministry spokesman advised Israeli citizens in the Maldives to consider departing, citing potential difficulties in providing assistance in case of emergencies.
The Maldives joins a list of other countries that prohibit Israeli passport holders from entry, including Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Yemen. Despite these restrictions, Israel maintains a resolute stance, as reflected in a statement earlier this year asserting, “We’re good,” in response to the entry bans enforced by these nations.
