Maldives Bans Israeli Passport Holders Amid Gaza Conflict

The Maldives government has announced a ban on Israeli passport holders from entering the Indian Ocean nation, citing public outrage over the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

President Mohamed Muizzu’s office released a statement confirming the ban, although specific details regarding its implementation were not provided.

In addition to the ban, President Muizzu launched a national fundraising campaign titled “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine” in response to the conflict.

Last year, approximately 11,000 Israelis visited the Maldives, accounting for 0.6 percent of total tourist arrivals.

However, official data indicates a significant decline, with only 528 Israeli visitors recorded in the first four months of this year, marking an 88 percent decrease compared to the same period last year.

Pressure from opposition parties and government allies has contributed to the decision to ban Israelis from entering the Maldives, as a gesture of protest against the conflict in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life and injuries among Palestinians.

In response to the ban, an Israeli foreign ministry spokesman advised Israeli citizens currently in the Maldives to consider leaving the country, expressing concerns about potential difficulties in providing assistance to citizens in distress.