Minister of Tourism, Ibrahim Thoriq, has stated that the government’s recent decision to ban Israeli passport holders from entering the country has not had a significant effect on the tourism industry.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, Minister Thoriq said that authorities have been closely monitoring the impact of the entry ban, which came into effect on April 15 as a response to ongoing Israeli military actions in Palestine. 

He noted that there have been no major disruptions or backlash against the move.

The minister stated that the government is actively reviewing the situation, but there is no indication of a major campaign against the decision.

There appears to be little to no presence of tourists with Israeli passports currently in the Maldives.

The entry ban is part of the government’s broader efforts to denounce what it described as "inhuman acts and genocide" committed by Israel against the Palestinian people.

A statement from the President’s Office emphasized that the move reflects the Maldives’ commitment to supporting Palestine through diplomatic channels and international forums.

Minister Thoriq also assured that the government is explaining the rationale behind the policy to foreign missions based in the Maldives, as well as to international bodies including the European Union.