In a decisive move reflecting its political stance on the ongoing Gaza conflict, the Maldives has officially barred Israeli passport holders from entering the country. President Mohamed Muizzu ratified an amendment to the Immigration Act on Wednesday, formalizing the ban after it was passed by parliament the previous day.
According to the president’s office, the new legislation was introduced as a direct response to what the Maldives government describes as “continuing atrocities and acts of genocide” by Israel against Palestinians in Gaza. The ban explicitly prohibits any individual holding an Israeli passport from entering the Maldives.
President Muizzu’s administration has voiced strong criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, aligning itself with global calls for accountability over the humanitarian crisis in the region. While Israel has consistently rejected accusations of genocide and emphasized its right to self-defense following the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, international scrutiny remains high. Human rights organizations such as Amnesty International have also accused Israel of violations, though Israel maintains that it operates within the bounds of international law.
The Maldives’ decision is seen as part of a broader symbolic gesture of solidarity with the Palestinian people. President Muizzu first announced his intention to introduce the ban in June 2024, following a cabinet recommendation. The measure has since garnered both domestic support and international attention, further positioning the Maldives within the larger geopolitical discourse surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The move could have economic implications, particularly in the tourism sector, which is a vital part of the Maldives’ economy. Renowned for its luxury resorts and clear turquoise waters, the island nation relies heavily on tourism, which contributes over 20% to its GDP. In 2024, the Maldives earned approximately $5.6 billion from tourism and expects similar figures this year.
Despite the potential impact, the government appears resolute in its decision. The Israeli Foreign Ministry and consular representatives have not issued public comments on the latest development. However, after the initial announcement in June, Israel advised its citizens to reconsider travel to the Maldives due to the evolving political climate.
While the number of Israeli tourists visiting the Maldives is relatively small compared to other nationalities, the government’s position underscores a growing trend among nations taking public stances on the Gaza war. Other countries, including South Africa, have pursued legal action through international bodies such as the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of crimes under international law. These cases are still under investigation or pending judgment.
The Maldivian government has stated that the new policy aligns with its ethical and humanitarian values. The ban is part of a wider package of initiatives announced by the administration, including fundraising efforts to support Palestinians and participation in international platforms advocating for Palestinian rights.
As the Gaza conflict continues to unfold, the Maldives joins a list of nations taking firm diplomatic actions. Whether this move will influence other countries or affect the Maldives’ tourism-driven economy in the long term remains to be seen, but it clearly signals the island nation’s commitment to its political and moral stance on the issue.
