The Maldives' National Security Services Committee, known as the 241 Committee, is set to review a proposed amendment to the Immigration Act that would ban entry for Israeli passport holders.

Inguraidhoo MP Ibrahim Falah, head of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) parliamentary group, confirmed the committee’s agenda to 'Voice', highlighting the urgency the PNC places on advancing the legislation.

The call for a ban has gained momentum in response to the ongoing genocide in Gaza, where recent escalations have led to extensive casualties and humanitarian crises.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s cabinet previously decided, on June 2, to pursue legislative changes that would prohibit Israeli citizens from entering the Maldives.

Following this, the PNC accepted a bill initially proposed by MP Meekail, which suggests adding a clause to Article 8 of the Immigration Act, specifying individuals barred from entering the country.

This provision aims to deny entry to Israeli passport holders, including those with dual citizenship.

The legislative process officially began on June 10, when the bill was unanimously forwarded to the National Security Services Committee for review.

However, Attorney General Usham has expressed concerns over potential legal complications of an outright ban, indicating that his office may recommend amendments.

Public outrage over the crisis in Gaza has spurred protests in the capital, Malé, where citizens have called on the government to cut ties with Israel and implement an entry ban.

Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s genocide in Gaza have led to the deaths of over 43,600 Palestinians, including a significant number of women and children, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

In addition to the fatalities, more than 102,900 people have been injured, with over 10,000 reported missing.

The devastation extends to the West Bank, where 780 individuals, including 167 children, have lost their lives, and more than 6,250 have been injured.

These actions have left much of Palestinian territory in ruins, displaced the majority of residents, and led to widespread malnutrition.

This has now spread to neighboring Lebanon, exacerbating the regional crisis.

The proposed amendment reflects both the Maldivian government’s and the public’s solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.