In response, Israel’s foreign ministry recommends its citizens – including those with dual citizenship – do not travel to the predominantly Muslim archipelago.
The Maldives says it will ban the entry of Israelis amid public anger in the predominantly Muslim archipelago over the war in Gaza.
The office of Maldives’ President Mohamed Muizzu said his cabinet had decided to change laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the country, and it will establish a subcommittee to oversee the process.
It also said the president will appoint a special envoy to assess Palestinian needs and launch a fundraising campaign.
In response, Israel’s foreign ministry recommended its citizens – and those with dual citizenship – do not travel to the Maldives.
It also recommended those currently there consider leaving.
“For Israeli citizens already in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving, because if they find themselves in distress for any reason, it will be difficult for us to assist,” the ministry said.
Some 528 Israeli nationals visited the Maldives in the first four months of this year, down from 4,644 in the same period in 2023, according to Maldives government data.
Nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the archipelago last year, accounting for 0.6% of total tourist arrivals.
It comes after tens of thousands of protesters rallied in Tel Aviv over the weekend to call for the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the immediate release of hostages.
Source: https://news.sky.com/story/maldives-announces-ban-on-israelis-entering-country-13147126
