- Maldives bans Israeli passport holders over Gaza conflict.
- President Muizzu enacts the law to express solidarity with Palestinians.
- Israeli citizens advised to avoid Maldives due to limited consular aid.
The Maldives has taken a firm diplomatic stance by barring Israeli passport holders from entering the country. This move was signed into law by President Mohamed Muizzu following parliamentary approval.
In addition to the travel restriction, the government plans to send a special envoy to assess humanitarian needs in Palestinian territories. It has also launched a national campaign titled “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine.”
Maldives Enforces Travel Ban on Israelis, Launches Palestine Solidarity Campaign
President Muizzu’s government moved swiftly to implement the travel ban. This was due to growing public pressure and parliamentary support for a stronger response to the Gaza crisis. The amended Immigration Act now restricts entry for Israeli passport holders. However, dual nationals with alternate travel documents can still enter.
This is not the first time the Maldives has adjusted its stance toward Israel. Diplomatic ties were explored briefly in 2010 but have remained frozen since 2012. The country had previously lifted a travel ban in the 1990s but is now reversing that decision. This is happening amid renewed regional tensions.
The Maldivian government is also prioritizing humanitarian efforts. A special envoy will be dispatched to evaluate urgent needs in Gaza and the West Bank. Additionally, a nationwide campaign will raise funds under a banner of Islamic solidarity. This initiative aims to both support Palestinians and unify Maldivians under a shared cause.
In response, Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a travel advisory urging its citizens, regardless of secondary nationality, to avoid visiting the Maldives. Israelis currently in the country are also encouraged to leave, as consular support remains extremely limited in the Indian Ocean nation.
The Maldives’ travel ban underscores a growing trend of symbolic and diplomatic actions in response to the Gaza conflict. It reinforces its identity as a nation aligned with Muslim solidarity and humanitarian advocacy.
“We stand with the people of Palestine and condemn the ongoing atrocities they face” – Office of the President, Maldives.
