Maldives: The Maldives has declared that holders of Israeli passports will not be permitted entry amid its conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
The news was made in a press statement on Sunday by the presidential office of the island nation in the Indian Ocean which is well-known for its opulent resorts and endless white sand beaches.
According to the announcement, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu decided to implement the prohibition after the cabinet made a recommendation.
The president’s office announced that the nation’s laws would be changed and that a cabinet subcommittee would be formed to supervise the initiatives.
As soon as the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs learned about the embargo, it advised Israeli citizens to think about leaving the country because it would be difficult for them to get assistance if they became in trouble for any reason.
According to the statement, the president declared that he is organizing a fundraiser to “assist our brothers and sisters in Palestine” with UNRWA and that he is designating a special envoy to evaluate Palestinian needs.
Under the banner of “Falastheenaa Eku Dhivehin,” or “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine,” Muizzu will also hold a national rally.
Last year, almost 11,000 Israelis travelled to the Maldives, making up 0.6 percent of all visitors. According to official data, there were 528 Israeli visitors to the Maldives in the first four months of this year, an 88 percent decrease from the same period the previous year.
Muizzu has been under pressure from opposition parties and government allies in the Maldives to forbid Israelis as a protest against the Gaza war.
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