The Maldives imposed a blanket ban on Israeli citizens in protest of “continued genocide” in Gaza and showed “unity” with the Palestinian people.
President Mohamed Muizzu approved legislation passed by the country’s parliament on Tuesday.
The office of President Mohamed Muizzu said in a statement that the decision was “resolutely united” with the Palestinian people.
“The approval reflects the government’s attitude towards the ongoing atrocities committed by Israel against the Palestinian people and the ongoing genocide,” a statement from his office said.
The statement added: “The Maldives reaffirmed its firm solidarity with the cause of Palestine.”
It is unclear whether the ban extends to dual nationals holding Israeli and other passports.
Israel firmly rejects allegations of genocide, after warning its citizens not to travel to the Maldives after the October 7 Hamas attacks and the Gaza war.
Official data shows that in February, only 59 Israeli tourists visited the luxury tourist islands in February.
The ban will come into effect immediately and apply to all 1,192 coral islets in the country.
The Maldives’ population is more than 98% of Muslims, after lifting bans on Israeli tourists in the 1990s and attempting to restore normal relations in 2010, although diplomatic efforts stagnate in 2012.
Opposition parties and government allies in the Maldives have been forcing Mr. Muizzu to ban Israelis as a statement against the Gaza war.
