The Maldives has recently banned the entry of visitors holding Israeli passports amid escalating public outrage over the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This decision was announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu following a Cabinet recommendation, though specific official details are yet to be provided.
The move appears to be a form of protest against the Israeli actions in Gaza and comes after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah killed 45 people in a tent camp. President Muizzu condemned the attack and called for Israel to comply with international law, urging an immediate ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access.
In addition to the entry ban, President Muizzu has initiated a national fundraising campaign to support Palestinians and announced a nationwide rally titled “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine.” The ban also includes plans to amend laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the country and the formation of a subcommittee to oversee these changes.
Following the ban, the Israeli foreign ministry advised its citizens to avoid traveling to the Maldives, and for those already in the country, to consider leaving due to potential difficulties in receiving assistance if needed.
Also Read: #AllEyesOnRafah: Children among 45 killed in Israeli airstrike on Gaza refugee camp
The Maldives previously lifted a ban on Israeli tourists in the early 1990s and attempted to restore relations in 2010, but these efforts faced challenges, particularly after the ousting of former president Mohamed Nasheed in 2012.
In 2024, official data indicated that 528 Israeli nationals visited the Maldives in the first four months, a significant decrease from the 4,644 during the same period in 2023.
Other countries that also deny entry to Israeli passport holders include Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Yemen.
Latest airstrike in Gaza
The escalation of violence in Rafah, Gaza, has led to casualties and widespread international condemnation. The Israeli airstrike on the refugee camp in Rafah resulted in the deaths of at least 45 people, including children.
The airstrike was a response to a barrage of rockets launched by Hamas towards Tel Aviv, most of which were intercepted by Israeli defences. Despite the ICJ’s ruling, Israeli forces continued their assault on Rafah, which has been a critical entry point for humanitarian aid and a refuge for many displaced Palestinians.
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