Maldives to ban Israeli citizens from entering country over war in Gaza

Israeli citizens

The Maldives, an Indian Ocean nation known for its luxurious tourist destinations, has announced a ban on Israeli citizens from entering the country. This decision comes as a sign of solidarity with Palestine amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. President Mohamed Muizzu has resolved to impose the ban on Israeli passports, according to a statement from his office. However, the specifics regarding the implementation of this ban have not yet been disclosed.

President Muizzu has also announced a national fundraising campaign titled "Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine," underscoring the nation's support for the Palestinian cause. The Maldives, a predominantly Islamic republic composed of over 1,000 coral islets, is renowned for its pristine beaches, clear turquoise lagoons, and idyllic getaways.

Historically, the Maldives had lifted a previous ban on Israeli tourists in the early 1990s and worked towards restoring diplomatic relations in 2010. However, these normalization efforts were interrupted by the political upheaval following the ousting of President Mohamed Nasheed in February 2012. In recent times, opposition parties and government allies in the Maldives have intensified their calls for a ban on Israeli citizens as a form of protest against the war in Gaza.

Tourism data indicates that the number of Israeli visitors to the Maldives has significantly decreased. Official figures show a drop to 528 Israeli tourists in the first four months of this year, an 88 percent decrease compared to the same period last year. This decline may reflect the growing political tensions and the Maldivian government's stance on the Gaza conflict.

The Maldives’ move to ban Israeli citizens highlights the nation's political and humanitarian stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It also signals potential impacts on the tourism sector, which is a vital part of the Maldivian economy. The government's actions are in response to internal political pressures and a demonstration of solidarity with Palestine, resonating with the broader Muslim community's sentiments worldwide.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this ban will affect the Maldives' international relations and tourism industry. The government's fundraising campaign and public rallies indicate a strong commitment to the Palestinian cause, aligning the nation's foreign policy with its domestic and international supporters of Palestine.