In the midst of its conflict with Hamas in Gaza, the Maldives has declared that holders of Israeli passports will not be permitted entry.
The news was made in a press statement on Sunday by the presidential office of the island nation in the Indian Ocean that is well-known for its opulent resorts and endless white sand beaches.
According to the announcement, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu decided to implement the prohibition after the cabinet made a recommendation.
The president’s office announced that the nation’s laws will be changed and that a cabinet subcommittee will be formed to supervise the initiatives.
As soon as the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs learned about the embargo, it advised Israeli citizens to think about leaving the country because it would be difficult for them to get assistance if they became in trouble for any reason.
According to the statement, the president declared that he is organizing a fundraiser to “assist our brothers and sisters in Palestine” with UNRWA and that he is designating a special envoy to evaluate Palestinian needs.
Under the banner of “Falastheenaa Eku Dhivehin,” or “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine,” Muizzu will also hold a national rally.
The announcement was made only a few days after the president denounced an Israeli airstrike attack that left over 200 people injured and at least 45 Palestinians dead on a camp for internally displaced people in Rafah.
The president wrote on X last week, saying, “Together with the government and people of Maldives, I call for an immediate ceasefire, an end to violence, and unhindered humanitarian access.”