Maldives Enforces ‘israeli’ Entry Ban in Firm Support for Palestinians
In a move reflecting "resolute solidarity" with the Palestinian people, the Maldives Parliament has passed legislation ratified by President Mohamed Muizzu, effectively prohibiting Israeli nationals from entering the nation.
On Tuesday, President Muizzu declared a ban on the entry of Israeli nationals into the archipelago. He described the decision as a “firm stance” in reaction to “continuing atrocities and ongoing acts of genocide committed by Israel against the Palestinian people.”
Muizzu swiftly enacted the legislation following its approval by the People’s Majlis, the parliamentary body of the Maldives.
He characterized the amendment as a “clear reflection of our position against the ongoing atrocities in Palestine,” and further stated that the Indian Ocean nation “reaffirms its steadfast solidarity with the Palestinian people.”
The Maldives persists in its campaign for accountability regarding breaches of international law, consistently expressing condemnation of Israel’s actions on multiple international stages, as articulated in the statement.
In a statement, the office announced that the ratification underscores the government’s resolute position in addressing the persistent atrocities and acts of genocide allegedly carried out by Israel against the Palestinian population.
A spokesperson from Muizzu’s office announced that the leader strongly endorses the legislation, with the ban set to be imposed immediately.
President Muizzu has continually affirmed the Maldives’ steadfast endorsement for the creation of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, aligning with pertinent United Nations resolutions and international legal standards, according to a spokesperson.
Supporters of the government, along with opposition parties, have been urging Muizzu to impose a ban on Israelis as a stance against the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The Maldives, which has not maintained diplomatic relations with Israel since the 1970s, had previously allowed Israeli travelers to visit the country. However, a new legislative measure enforces a travel ban on Israelis until Israel ceases its operations in Gaza.
In the previous year, approximately 11,000 Israeli tourists traveled to the Maldives. In December, Israel released a travel advisory warning of heightened anti-Israel sentiment, following increased tensions stemming from the Gaza conflict.
