The Maldives, a predominantly Muslim island nation, has long been a vocal critic of Israeli policies towards the Palestinian people. The country’s decision to ban Israeli passport holders is seen as a significant step in the global pushback against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The ban, which will be enforced through an amendment to the country’s laws, is expected to have a significant impact on tourism in the Maldives. The country has traditionally been a popular destination for Israeli tourists, with nearly 11,000 visiting in 2023. However, the number of Israeli visitors has already begun to decline in the wake of the Gaza war, with only 528 arriving in the first four months of 2024.
The Maldives’ decision to ban Israeli passport holders is not without precedent. In the early 1990s, the country banned Israeli tourists following a wave of protests and demonstrations against Israeli policies. The ban was lifted in the early 2000s, but relations between the two countries have been strained ever since.
The Maldives’ move is part of a broader global trend of countries taking action against Israel in response to the Gaza war. In recent weeks, several countries have announced boycotts of Israeli goods and services, while others have called for sanctions against the Israeli government.
The Maldives’ decision to ban Israeli passport holders is a significant step in this global pushback against Israel. It sends a powerful message that the world will not stand idly by while innocent civilians are killed and displaced in Gaza. As the international community continues to grapple with the consequences of the Gaza war, the Maldives’ bold move is a reminder that the world will not be silenced by the actions of a rogue state.