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Maldives Bans Israeli Travelers Over Gaza Atrocities
Thursday April 17, 2025 6:05 AM
The Maldives government has announced a ban on Israeli passport holders entering the country, citing ongoing violence in Gaza. The decision comes amid rising international condemnation of Israel's military operations in the Palestinian territory.
President Mohamed Muizzu made the announcement following a recommendation from his cabinet. The ban includes all Israeli citizens, regardless of their travel purpose. Authorities have also established a subcommittee to oversee the enforcement of the new policy.
The move follows weeks of protests in the Maldives against Israel's actions in Gaza. Many citizens and political groups have called for stronger measures to show solidarity with Palestinians. The government has framed the ban as a response to what it calls "continuing atrocities" in the conflict.
Tourism officials confirmed that Israeli visitors make up a small fraction of the Maldives' annual arrivals. The country, known for its luxury resorts and pristine beaches, has traditionally attracted travelers from Europe, China, and the Middle East. However, the symbolic nature of the ban has drawn significant attention.
Israel's foreign ministry has not yet issued an official response. Analysts suggest the decision could further strain diplomatic relations between the two nations. The Maldives has no formal ties with Israel and has historically supported Palestinian statehood.
Local businesses have expressed mixed reactions. While some resort operators worry about potential backlash, others argue the economic impact will be minimal. The government has assured the tourism sector that alternative markets will compensate for any losses.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in, with some praising the Maldives for taking a stand while others criticize the move as discriminatory. Legal experts are debating whether the ban violates international travel agreements, though Maldivian officials insist it falls within their sovereign rights.
The ban takes effect immediately, with immigration authorities instructed to deny entry to any traveler holding an Israeli passport. The government has not specified how long the restriction will remain in place but indicated it could be reassessed based on developments in Gaza.
This decision aligns with similar measures taken by other nations in recent months. Several countries have either severed or downgraded diplomatic relations with Israel since the Gaza conflict escalated. The Maldives now joins a small group of nations imposing direct travel bans on Israeli citizens.
As tensions persist in the region, the Maldivian government has reiterated its call for a ceasefire and renewed peace negotiations. Officials say they remain committed to supporting humanitarian efforts in Gaza while maintaining their stance against Israeli policies.
The international community continues to monitor the situation, with some observers warning that such bans could further polarize global opinion on the conflict. For now, the Maldives stands firm in its decision, framing it as both a moral and political statement.
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