Maldives Announces Ban on Entry of Israelis as Anger Rises Over War in Gaza

The Maldives government has taken a significant step in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza by announcing a ban on Israeli passport holders from entering the country. \

This decision reflects the rising public anger in the predominantly Muslim nation and follows a parliamentary resolution that not only bans Israeli tourists but also prohibits the import of Israeli products.

The announcement, made by the president’s office on Sunday, stated that the Cabinet has decided to amend the existing laws to enforce this ban. 

To oversee the implementation, a subcommittee will be established. 

President Mohamed Muiz will also appoint a special envoy tasked with assessing Palestinian needs and launching a fundraising campaign to support the Palestinian cause.

This move comes amidst a backdrop of increasing tensions and international responses to the conflict in Gaza. 

According to the Associated Press, Israel's Foreign Ministry has already issued a travel advisory, recommending Israelis to avoid traveling to the Maldives, even those holding foreign passports. 

This advisory is significant considering that nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the Maldives in 2023, making up 0.6% of the total tourist arrivals.

The Maldives is not the only country reacting strongly to the situation in Gaza. 

Last week, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva withdrew the country’s ambassador to Israel. 

This withdrawal, announced in Brazil’s official gazette, followed months of escalating tensions between Brazil and Israel over the Gaza conflict. 

In February, during a press conference in Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa, President Lula accused Israel of committing "genocide" against Palestinian civilians. 

He drew a controversial comparison between Israel’s actions in Gaza and the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany and other European countries during the first half of the 20th century. 

Israel responded sharply to these comments, summoning Brazil’s envoy for an official protest and public reprimand.

In addition to Brazil's stance, several European nations have also taken steps that have angered Israel. 

On May 28, Spain, Ireland, and Norway formally recognized Palestinian statehood. Israel criticized this recognition, accusing these nations of encouraging terrorism.

The decision by the Maldives to ban Israeli entry underscores the growing international discontent and the complex geopolitical reactions to the Gaza conflict. 

It highlights the solidarity many nations feel with the Palestinian cause and the increasing willingness to take diplomatic actions in response to the ongoing violence.

The implications of such bans are multifaceted. 

For the Maldives, this decision aligns with the sentiments of its predominantly Muslim population, reflecting the broader regional and religious solidarity with Palestinians. 

However, it also poses potential economic ramifications given the tourism sector's reliance on international visitors, including Israelis.

As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, it is clear that international reactions and policies will play a crucial role in shaping the diplomatic landscape. 

The Maldives’ recent actions are a testament to the far-reaching impact of the conflict and the global community's varying responses to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.