Maldives bans Israeli entry in solidarity with Palestinians

The Maldives has officially banned the entry of Israeli citizens in response to what it describes as ongoing atrocities and genocide committed by Israel against Palestinians. This legislation was ratified by President Mohamed Muizzu after unanimous approval from parliament and is aimed at showing solidarity with the Palestinian people. The Maldives’ government emphasized that this ban reflects a firm stance against the violence stemming from the ongoing Gaza conflict, which has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Previously, the Maldives lifted a ban on Israeli tourists in the early 1990s, but opposition parties and government allies have pressured for this reversal amid the current war. Israel's Foreign Ministry had warned its citizens last year to avoid traveling to the Maldives. Since the conflict escalated in October 2023, the death toll in Gaza has reportedly surpassed 50,000.