The Indian Ocean nation of the Maldives has announced a ban on Israeli passport holders as part of a national rally in "solidarity with Palestine."
The decision comes amid heightened tensions and violence in Gaza, which has prompted widespread international reaction.
President Mohamed Muizzu has "resolved to impose a ban on Israeli passports," a government spokesman said on Sunday, though no details were provided on when the new law would take effect. This move marks a significant policy shift for the Maldives, a country renowned for its luxury tourist resorts, sandy white beaches, and turquoise lagoons.
In conjunction with the ban, President Muizzu also launched a national fundraising campaign titled "Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine." This campaign aims to provide support to Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.
The Maldives had previously lifted a ban on Israeli tourists in the early 1990s and attempted to restore diplomatic relations in 2010. However, these normalization efforts were disrupted following the toppling of President Mohamed Nasheed in February 2012.
The recent decision to ban Israeli citizens follows pressure from both opposition parties and government allies in the Maldives, urging President Muizzu to take a stand against the Gaza war.
In response to the ban, an Israeli foreign ministry spokesman advised Israeli citizens to avoid traveling to the Maldives.
"For Israeli citizens staying in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving, since if they fall into distress for any reason, it will be difficult for us to help," the spokesman said.
The Maldives, an Islamic republic comprising more than 1,000 strategically located coral islets, is known for its secluded, picturesque beaches and luxury bungalow resorts, making it a popular destination for tourists worldwide.
Israel passport holders are already not allowed to enter Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Yemen.
We’re good pic.twitter.com/GmiwEzZGck
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) March 14, 2024
