The Maldives government has decided to ban Israeli citizens from entering the country due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This decision follows a surge in public anger within the predominantly Muslim nation and a parliamentary resolution that prohibits Israeli tourists and products.
On Sunday, the president’s office announced that the Cabinet had approved changes to laws preventing Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives. A subcommittee will be formed to oversee the implementation of this ban. Additionally, President Mohamed Muizzu plans to appoint a special envoy to evaluate Palestinian needs and initiate a fundraising campaign.
In response, Israel’s Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens, including those with foreign passports, to avoid travelling to the Maldives. In 2023, nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the Maldives, representing 0.6% of total tourist arrivals.
The Maldives’ move mirrors escalating global tensions regarding the Gaza conflict. Last week, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva withdrew the country’s ambassador to Israel, following months of diplomatic strain. The withdrawal was officially announced in Brazil’s gazette, as reported by the Associated Press.
President Lula has been vocally critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, accusing the nation of committing “genocide” against Palestinian civilians. During a press conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in February, Lula compared Israel’s actions to those of Nazi Germany, which led to a severe backlash from Israel, resulting in the summoning of Brazil’s envoy for an official protest.
In another development, Spain, Ireland, and Norway formally recognised Palestinian statehood on May 28. This recognition has further strained relations with Israel, which accused the three European countries of encouraging terrorism.
These international developments reflect a growing divide over the Gaza conflict, with significant geopolitical implications as countries take strong stances on the issue.
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