Maldives bans entry of Israeli citizens ‘in solidarity with Palestine’

The Maldivian government has decided to prohibit the entry of Israeli citizens into their country.

They will amend necessary laws to implement the ban effectively, Maldivian President’s office said in a statement. This decision is made to demonstrate solidarity with Palestine amidst ongoing tensions in the Dead Sea region.

Maldives also announced a fundraiser campaign to help Palestinian citizens with the support of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees.

They will also hold a nationwide protest with the slogan “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine” to express support and solidarity for Palestinian citizens.

Maldives’ Homeland Security and Technology Minister, Ali Ihusan, officially announced this decision following a cabinet meeting with President Mohamed Muizzu at his residence.

The statement issued by the President’s office said, “President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, following a recommendation from the Cabinet, has resolved to impose a ban on Israeli passports.” The Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihsaan, said in a press conference held at the President’s Office this afternoon.

Previously, Maldives also criticized the Israeli airstrikes in Rafah which killed at least 35 Palestinians. “Such deliberate aggression and genocidal acts targeted against civilians are in gross violation of international humanitarian law,” stated the Maldives Foreign Ministry.

Last week, Israel conducted airstrikes in Gaza’s southern city of Rafah, resulting in the deaths of at least 35 Palestinians. Amid global outrage, Israel bombed the Rafah area again on May 28, killing at least 45 people, according to Palestinian officials.

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