The Maldives’ administration has declared that it would no longer allow Israeli tourists, as public anxiety about the Gaza crisis has grown. The Indian Ocean archipelago, which is well-known for its gorgeous white sand beaches and opulent resorts, will no longer accept visitors holding Israeli passports.
The embargo was announced by President Mohamed Muizzu, who also introduced a fundraising initiative named “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine.” The Maldives’ political environment and mounting public pressure are the reasons behind this action. About 11,000 Israeli visitors traveled to the Maldives last year; however, this year’s number has drastically decreased.
Israeli guests are prohibited from entering the country, a move that was influenced by both government supporters and opposition groups who pushed President Muizzu to make a statement. They think that in order to demonstrate support for the Palestinian cause, this ban is an essential move.
A representative for the Israeli foreign ministry has suggested that Israelis residing in the Maldives might want to consider leaving the nation in light of this new policy. The purpose of this recommendation is to protect Israeli citizens’ safety and welfare in the face of shifting political conditions.
It’s crucial to remember that other nations also enforce similar limitations, not just the Maldives. In keeping with greater geopolitical concerns in the area, bearers with Israeli passports are also prohibited from entering a number of other nations.
The Maldives’ decision highlights how international crises affect travel and tourism around the world. This restriction is a big change for a nation that depends so much on tourism. Israelis and other tourists from all over the world have long flocked to the Maldives. Nonetheless, this significant shift in policy has been brought about by the growing public opinion over the Gaza situation.
Apart from the travel prohibition, President Muizzu launched a fundraising campaign with the goal of aiding the Palestinian people. The “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine” campaign aims to raise money to support individuals impacted by the fighting. This endeavor is a component of a larger plan to synchronize the Maldives with global backing for Palestine.
Global outcry over the Gaza situation has led to the Maldives presenting itself as a champion of the Palestinian cause. Many Maldivians who have shown their support for the Palestinian cause are probably going to find resonance in this action.
