Maldives bans Israelis from entering country over Gaza

The Maldives Government has decided to ban Israelis from entering the country as public anger in the predominantly Muslim nation rises over the war in Gaza.

In 2022, the Maldives saw a record 16,000 Israeli tourists.

Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, following a recommendation from the Cabinet, has resolved to impose a ban on Israeli passports. The Homeland Security and Technology Minister Ali Ihsaan, announced the decision at a news conference held at the President’s Office.

The Cabinet decision includes amending necessary laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives and establishing a Cabinet subcommittee to oversee these efforts.

Additionally, in the case of Palestine and Israel, the President decided to appoint a special envoy to assess Palestinian needs. The President further decided to set up a fundraising campaign to assist our brothers and sisters in Palestine with the help of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and to conduct a nationwide rally under the slogan “Falastheenaa Eku Dhivehin,” which translates to “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine” to show support.