Maldives to impose unconditional entry ban on Israeli passport holders

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed that holders of Israeli passports will be prohibited from entering the Maldives under an unconditional ban, regardless of any changes in circumstances.

Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office on November 9, the President said the provision had been incorporated into the Government’s proposed Immigration Bill to clearly establish the country’s position on the matter.

President Dr. Muizzu explained that earlier proposals had sought to prohibit Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives until Israel halted its military campaign against Palestinians, which began following the October 7, 2023 attacks.

However, the latest Bill removes any such conditions, making the prohibition unconditional.

He said the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people was something the Maldivian public would never accept, adding that permitting Israeli passport holders to enter the country would contradict the Government's policies.

The President also highlighted the Maldives' continued efforts to advocate for Palestine through international platforms and legal proceedings, noting that the country had intervened in several international court cases concerning the issue.

He added that the Government was committed to communicating the Maldives' position at international forums, describing it as a reflection of the wishes of the Maldivian people.

The proposed amendment is among the Government-sponsored Bills submitted to the People's Majlis and is intended to formally establish the entry prohibition under the country's immigration framework.