Maldives Prohibits Entry for Israeli Passport Holders in Solidarity with Palestine

 Maldives Prohibits Entry for Israeli Tourists in Solidarity with Palestine

Malé, Maldives: The Maldives has officially banned Israeli passport holders from entering the country, a move President Mohamed Muizzu has ratified as a demonstration of "resolute solidarity" with Palestine amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. The President's Office announced the ratification of the Third Amendment to the Maldives Immigration Act on Tuesday.   

President Muizzu's office stated that this decision reflects the government's firm stance against the "continuing atrocities and ongoing acts of genocide committed by Israel against the Palestinian people." The ban, which takes immediate effect, underscores the Maldives' strong condemnation of Israel's actions.   

The decision follows increasing pressure from opposition parties and government allies within the Maldives, urging a stronger stance against the conflict in Gaza. Official data indicates a significant decline in Israeli tourists visiting the Maldives in recent times, with only 59 arrivals recorded in February, compared to nearly 11,000 in the entirety of 2023.   

The Maldives, a predominantly Muslim nation, has historically had a complex relationship with Israel. While diplomatic ties were briefly established in the past, they have remained strained for several years. This recent decision marks a significant step in the Maldives' expression of solidarity with the Palestinian cause.   

Furthermore, President Muizzu has announced plans to appoint a special envoy to assess the humanitarian needs in the Palestinian territories and to launch a national fundraising campaign under the banner "Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine." The Maldives has also reaffirmed its long-standing support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.   

This decision by the Maldives adds to the growing international scrutiny and pressure on Israel regarding its actions in the Gaza Strip