Maldives bans Israeli passport holders in solidarity with Palestine
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New Delhi: The Maldives has amended its Immigration Act to ban the entry of Israeli passport holders, following the passing of a bill in parliament with unanimous support from all participating MPs on April 15. The bill was then ratified by President Mohamed Muizzu, solidifying the decision.
According to a statement on the President's Office website, the ratification of the amendment reflects the government's position in response to what it terms the ongoing atrocities and acts of genocide committed by Israel against the Palestinian people. The Maldives continues to advocate for accountability regarding violations of international law and condemns Israel’s actions toward Palestine.
Under the new immigration law, travelers with Israeli passports will be denied entry to the Maldives. However, individuals holding dual citizenship will still be allowed entry, provided they use a passport from another country.
The bill had been stalled for 308 days before being reviewed by the Committee on Security Services (241 Committee) and ultimately passed in the parliament.