Maldives set to impose the ban on Israeli passport holders from entering the country

The Maldives has recently started work towards implementing a ban on Israeli passport holders, reflecting a significant stance in support of Palestine. The Maldives has historically always stood in support of Palestine, however, prior to the recent amendments Israeli passport holders were still allowed into the Maldives. 

The recent decision follows a resolution passed by the Maldivian Parliament, which is set to prohibit Israeli citizens from entering the country. The resolution was a response to the ongoing genocide in Gaza and is aimed at condemning Israeli actions in Palestine. According to local news media, in 2023 alone there were 11,000 Israeli passport holders visiting the Maldives. However, as Maldivian citizens have made their stance on Palestine clearer in the past few months as the genocide in Palestine has worsened, the Israeli Government has put out a travel advisory to its citizens regarding visiting the Maldives. 

Although it is yet unclear when the resolve to impose the ban on Israeli passports will come into effect, this major stance from the Maldives with Palestine is becoming acknowledged worldwide as several Arab nations continue to fail to showcase their support.

The Maldives' move aligns it with other nations that have similar restrictions on Israeli passport holders. Several countries do not allow entry to Israeli citizens or impose severe restrictions, including Iran, Syria, Lebanon, and Bangladesh.