Maldives Bans Israeli Passport Holders Amid Conflict with Hamas
In a bold move, the Maldives has decided to prohibit Israeli passport holders from entering the country as part of its stance against the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
The announcement was made by the presidential office of this exotic Indian Ocean destination, renowned for its opulent resorts and pristine white sand beaches, through a press release issued on Sunday.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives made the decision to implement the ban based on a recommendation from the cabinet, as stated in the release.
The country will amend its laws accordingly, and a cabinet subcommittee will be formed to oversee the implementation of this measure, the president’s office confirmed.
Following the news of the ban, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised its citizens to refrain from traveling to the Maldives and encouraged those already in the country to consider leaving due to potential difficulties in receiving help if needed.
Furthermore, the president revealed plans to appoint a special envoy to assess the needs of Palestinians and initiate a fundraiser in collaboration with UNRWA to provide assistance to the people in Palestine.
President Muizzu also announced a nationwide rally under the theme “Falastheenaa Eku Dhivehin,” meaning “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine.”
This development comes shortly after the president’s condemnation of an Israeli airstrike on a displaced camp in Rafah, which resulted in the death of at least 45 Palestinians and left over 200 injured.
“Together with the government and people of Maldives, I call for an immediate ceasefire, an end to violence and unhindered humanitarian access,” the president stated last week. — CNN
