The Maldives Parliament’s Security Services Committee, commonly referred to as the 241 Committee, has set a goal to complete amendments to the Immigration Act by February next year.

These proposed changes are focused on prohibiting Israeli citizens, including dual passport holders, from entering the Maldives.

This legislative initiative stems from a cabinet decision by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on June 2, which sought to impose entry restrictions on Israeli nationals in response to ongoing regional conflicts. Subsequently, the Progressive National Congress (PNC) supported a bill initially put forth by South Galolhu MP Meekail, which aims to modify Article 8 of the Immigration Act.

This proposed clause specifically identifies individuals barred from entry into the Maldives, with Israeli passport holders as a primary focus.

During committee deliberations, MP for Maafannu North, Mohamed Nazim, recommended consulting with local political parties, the tourism sector, the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), and relevant NGOs to ensure balanced input on the amendment.

The committee’s chairman, Ahmed Saleem, indicated that such stakeholder discussions would accompany the amendment process to address the implications for the tourism industry and other sectors.

This amendment proposal has gained momentum amid the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

Since October 7, 2023 till November 10, intensified hostilities have led to the deaths of over 43,600 Palestinians, including many women and children, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

Additionally, more than 102,900 individuals have been injured, and over 10,000 remain missing.

The violence has severely affected Palestinian territories, with widespread destruction, displacement, and severe malnutrition reported.

The Israel has also started bombing Lebanon killing thousands and going against the international law. 

The Maldives government’s stance reflects a growing regional response to the genocide in Palestine, signaling the nation’s diplomatic positioning on the issue.