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Maldives Stands in Solidarity with Palestine, Bans Entry for Israeli Passport Holders
In a bold move expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause, the Maldives government has announced a ban on Israeli passport holders from entering the country. This decision comes amid rising public anger over the ongoing crisis in Gaza, where the devastating consequences of the conflict have left a trail of destruction and loss of life.
President Mohamed Muizzu, responding to the nation's mounting concern, has taken this decisive step following a recommendation from the cabinet. The president's office confirmed the ban on Sunday, stating that necessary legal amendments will be made to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives. Additionally, a cabinet subcommittee has been appointed to oversee the implementation of these efforts.
Muizzu's actions extend beyond the travel ban. He has launched a national fundraising campaign to assist Palestinians in collaboration with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Furthermore, a nationwide rally titled "Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine" is set to be conducted, allowing the public to express their support for the Palestinian cause.
The president's office also announced the appointment of a special envoy to assess the needs of Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict. This move demonstrates the Maldives' commitment to providing tangible assistance to those impacted by the crisis.
The impact of the conflict on tourism has been significant, with only 528 Israeli tourists visiting the Maldives in the first four months of this year, a stark contrast to nearly 11,000 visitors in the previous year. Opposition parties and government allies have intensified pressure on Muizzu to take a firm stance against Israel due to the escalating violence and mounting civilian casualties in Gaza.
Israel's foreign ministry has advised its citizens currently in the Maldives to consider leaving the country, citing potential difficulties in providing assistance if needed. With this newly introduced ban, the Maldives joins a list of nations that prohibit entry to Israeli passport holders, including Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Yemen.
The Maldives had previously imposed a ban on Israeli tourists, which was lifted in the early 1990s. Attempts to normalize relations in 2010 were abandoned after the ousting of President Mohamed Nasheed in 2012. However, the current crisis has reignited the nation's stance in support of the Palestinian cause, showcasing the Maldives' unwavering commitment to standing in solidarity with the people of Palestine.