A special cabinet committee has banned Israeli citizens from entering the Maldives. President Muizzu made this decision to protest Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The Maldives has made its stance clear in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. As a Muslim nation, the Maldives has decided not only to support Palestine but also to oppose Israel. The country’s recent ban on Israeli passports is evidence of this direction.
The newly appointed President, Mohammad Muizzu, has shown a preference for pro-Islam powers. Muizzu formed a special cabinet committee to initiate the necessary legal changes to enforce the ban.
The president’s office announced the ban via a press release. The release states, “President Dr. Mohammad Muizzu, following a recommendation from the Cabinet, has resolved to impose a ban on Israeli passports.”
The press release adds, “The Cabinet decision includes amending necessary laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives and establishing a Cabinet subcommittee to oversee these efforts.”
According to local media, the Maldives made this decision in response to Israel’s retaliatory bombardments and ground offensive in Gaza.
Maldives Will Fundraise for Palestine
In addition to the ban on Israeli passports, the Muizzu cabinet plans to fundraise for Palestinians. According to reports, the fundraiser will aim to send aid to people in Palestine while coordinating with UNRWA.
The country will also organize meetings with Islamic countries to seek a swift resolution to the Palestinian issue. A national march titled “Maldives with Palestine” is also set to take place in the coming days.
Consequences of Maldives’ Ban on Israeli Passports
The decision to ban Israelis from the country will not have a significant impact on the Iceland. The majority of the Maldivian economy depends on tourism, and the country does not receive significant tourism business from Israel.
However, the island nation has some import ties with Israel that may affect its economy. The Maldives imports telephones, aircraft parts, and video displays from Israel. If this decision results in a relationship breach, the Maldives may face business losses.
Furthermore, if the Maldives makes decisions based solely on religion, other non-Muslim countries might be indirectly involved. The USA, which already supports Israel, might view the Maldives’ move unfavorably, potentially affecting diplomatic relations.
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