# Maldives bans Israeli passport holders in protest against Gaza war

> The Maldives has banned Israeli passport holders, citing alleged genocide against Palestinians in Gaza—claims Israel denies. President Muizzu ratified the immigration law change, reflecting the government's strong stanc…

Published: 2026-09-15 · Desk: Latest · Source: The Economic Times

The Maldives has officially banned individuals with Israeli passports from entering the country, citing what it described as Israel’s ongoing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza—a claim Israel firmly denies. This decision was announced by President Mohamed Muizzu’s office on Wednesday, following the ratification of an amendment to the nation's immigration law. The new clause, passed in parliament the previous day, explicitly bars Israeli passport holders from visiting the island nation.

The statement from the president’s office emphasized that this move represents the Maldivian government’s strong opposition to what it considers continued atrocities by Israel in Gaza. Israel, on the other hand, maintains that it is acting within international law and exercising its right to self-defense following Hamas’s cross-border assault on October 7, 2023, which triggered the current conflict.

While Israel’s foreign ministry and consular office in Colombo have yet to issue any response, it’s not the first time tensions have surfaced. Back in June 2024, President Muizzu had already signaled his intention to impose the ban, following a recommendation from his cabinet. That announcement led Israeli authorities to advise their citizens to avoid travel to the Maldives, a country renowned for its luxurious resorts and clear turquoise waters.

Despite tourism being a vital part of the Maldivian economy—contributing about 21% to its GDP and bringing in approximately $5.6 billion in 2024—the government appears determined to take a political stand. This year, the Maldives projects tourism earnings close to $5 billion, yet remains resolute in its decision, aligning itself with global critics of Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to reject genocide allegations, including those from South Africa at the U.N.'s International Court of Justice and from Amnesty International, which in a December 2024 report accused Israel of committing genocide—charges the Israeli government has categorically denied.

Original reporting: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/maldives-bans-israeli-passport-holders-in-protest-against-gaza-war/articleshow/120352775.cms
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