Maldives entry ban on Israeli visitors hits snag over Palestinian passport holders

Weeks after announcing plans to ban Israeli tourists from entering the Maldives , the island nation's Attorney General Ahmed Usham has highlighted challenges to this extreme measure. The announcement has captured media attention worldwide, particularly in Israel.

At a press conference on Thursday, reported by MV Republic, Usham said that a blanket ban on Israeli passport holders requires further scrutiny. He emphasized that while the government's stance remains unchanged, there are significant issues to address.

2 View gallery For now, Israelis can still come over

“The biggest concern is that there are many Palestinians with Israeli passports, millions of them. What happens when we impose a blanket ban? These are matters that need careful consideration,” Usham remarked, noting that a solution would be found.

Currently, no new bill is on parliament's agenda to impose such a ban. Usham explained that a similar proposal was already introduced by an opposition member in the past. This existing proposal seeks to ban entry for anyone holding an Israeli passport, even if they possess another foreign passport. Parliamentary rules prohibit submitting two bills on the same subject, so Usham suggests amending the old proposal.

“We believe the best approach is to take the existing bill and amend it during committee discussions,” Usham said, without specifying how many amendments would be made. “Therefore, the government will not present an additional bill.”

Israelis can still enter, but caution advised

Earlier this month, following the President's Office announcement about the intention to ban Israelis, the Israeli Foreign Ministry issued a recommendation for its citizens to avoid traveling to the Maldives—a recommendation that also applies to those with foreign passports. “In light of the Maldivian government's decision to ban the entry of citizens holding Israeli passports, the Foreign Ministry recommends that Israeli citizens avoid all travel to the Maldives,” read the ministry's statement. “This recommendation also applies to Israeli citizens holding a foreign passport, in addition to an Israeli passport. For Israeli citizens currently in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving, as in the event of distress for any reason, we will find it difficult to assist.”

In October and December, the Foreign Ministry also advised Israelis to avoid visiting the Maldives due to the worsening atmosphere against Israel, including public statements by official sources.

2 View gallery The Maldives ( Photo: Shutterstock )

Even this morning, the Israeli Foreign Ministry's policy remains unchanged, and the recommendation is to avoid traveling to the country, even though the law has not yet been approved and technically, Israelis can still enter the Maldives.

The Maldives: a slice of paradise with complex diplomacy

The Maldives, renowned for its breathtaking white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, is an island nation in the Arabian Sea of the Indian Ocean. Despite the lack of diplomatic relations with Israel, Israeli tourists can still reach the Maldives through other countries and obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport.

Between 1965 and 1974, Israel and the Maldives maintained full diplomatic relations, which were later frozen. Attempts to reestablish relationships were later rekindled, but opposition within the Maldivian Parliament put a stop to that as well.

While the allure of the Maldives' stunning beaches and serene landscapes remains undeniable, the complex diplomatic landscape adds a layer of caution for Israeli travelers. As the situation evolves, it is advisable for those considering a trip to this exotic destination to stay informed and heed travel advisories.