The Maldives government announced on Sunday a significant policy move that will deem Israeli passport holders barred from entering the country. This decision was confirmed by the president’s office following a cabinet meeting.
The government has resolved to amend the necessary laws to prevent Israelis from entering the Indian Ocean archipelago, renowned for its resorts and picturesque beaches. A subcommittee will be established to oversee the implementation of this ban. Home Minister Ali Ihsaan officially announced the decision at a news conference held at the President’s Office.
President Mohamed Muizzu has also declared a national fundraising campaign titled “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine” to support Palestinian needs. He will appoint a special envoy to assess the situation and coordinate aid efforts, including a partnership with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. The campaign aims to build support and arrange resources for Palestinians affected by the conflict.
Israel’s Response
In response to the Maldives’ announcement, Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a travel advisory recommending that Israelis avoid traveling to the Maldives. The advisory extends to those holding foreign passports and urges Israelis currently in the country to consider leaving. Oren Marmorstein, a spokesperson for Israel’s Foreign Ministry, highlighted the potential difficulties in assisting Israelis in distress due to the new restrictions.
Context
The decision to ban Israeli passport holders follows escalating violence in Gaza. The conflict intensified following a Hamas attack on 7 October where approximately 3000 militants infiltrated Israel, resulting in the deaths of around 1200 people and the capture of 252 hostages. Israel’s subsequent military response has led to a significant crisis in Gaza.
Implications for The Maldives
The Maldives, a predominantly Muslim state, has had a complex relationship with Israel. Diplomatic ties were severed in 1974 and were only briefly restored in 2010 before being abandoned again in 2014. Despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, nearly 11000 Israelis visited the Maldives last year, making up 0.6% of the total tourist arrivals. This ban is expected to impact the tourism sector, a major part of the Maldivian economy, which has already seen a significant decline in Israeli visitors this year.
As the situation develops, the Maldives government is set to conduct a rally under the slogan “Falastheenaa Eku Dhivehin” to demonstrate their support for the Palestinian cause. The exact date for the implementation of the new entry ban is yet to be specified.
Death Toll of the Israel-Hamas War
According to latest figures, the death toll of the Israel-Gaza War since 7 October, 2023 stands at 36962 people killed in Palestine and 1139 in Israel. Of the former, at least 523 people have been killed in the Occupied West Bank, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.
