Maldives Bans Israeli Citizens, Sparking International Controversy

By Ivan PetrenkoJun 4, 2024 14:32 PMNews
Share:
Scenic beach and clear waters in the Maldives
Tourism policies contrast with recent entry ban. Source: unsplash

The Maldives has recently implemented a ban on entry for Israeli citizens, a decision that has drawn significant international attention. The new policy was enacted in conjunction with a fundraising initiative for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), an organization that operates in Gaza and has had employees implicated in the October 7th terrorist attacks.

This policy has raised numerous questions and criticisms. Critics argue that if the Maldives were genuinely concerned about the Palestinian plight, they would not exclude Israeli citizens, 21% of whom are Palestinian. They suggest that allowing Israeli tourists could potentially provide economic benefits that could be redirected to aid Palestinians in Gaza. However, there's skepticism regarding the efficacy of such aid, given accusations that Hamas frequently diverts humanitarian resources for its own use.

Interestingly, the Maldives has not extended similar bans to other controversial entities or nations. For example, Hamas leaders residing in Qatar and passport holders from Syria or Sudan have not been subjected to similar restrictions. This selective ban appears to target Israeli citizens specifically, leading to accusations of anti-Semitism.

Despite being a strictly Sunni Muslim country, the Maldives relies heavily on tourism and accommodates practices typically forbidden under Islamic law, such as the consumption of alcohol and immodest dress, by confining these activities to designated "uninhabited areas." This pragmatic approach to tourism contrasts sharply with the rigid stance on Israeli passports, highlighting potential inconsistencies in the country's policies.

The ban has also not been accompanied by any condemnation of Hamas' controversial tactics, such as using human shields or embedding combatants in civilian areas. This selective censure underscores the political motivations behind the Maldives' latest policy decision.

The international community is watching closely to see how this ban will affect relations and tourism in the Maldives, as well as its broader implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics. The policy marks a significant stance by the Maldives, one that has sparked debate and will likely continue to provoke strong reactions globally.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Air Canada aircraft taxiing at the airport

From Toronto to Tirana: Air Canada and ITA Airways Expand Travel Routes

Jul 14, 2025 23:47 PM
A Stagecoach double-decker bus stops on a city street in front of a historic brick building

Summer Bus Cuts in Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire Challenge Access to Outdoor Destinations

Jul 14, 2025 22:31 PM

Alpine Town in Switzerland Combines Ski Season with Lake Sports

Jul 14, 2025 21:25 PM

Cancellations and Disruptions: Southend Airport Closed Following Aircraft Incident

Jul 14, 2025 18:48 PM
Modern hotel bedroom with neutral tones and ambient lighting

New Hotel Near Dublin Offers Quiet Alternative for Exploring Ireland's Heartland

Jul 14, 2025 17:32 PM
View of Helsinki Airport terminal with passengers silhouetted against large windows

Finland’s Airports to Operate Normally During Peak July Travel After Strike Threat Lifted

Jul 13, 2025 21:28 PM
Delta Airlines Boeing 767 aircraft climbing after takeoff at sunset

New Direct Flight Links Utah to Peru’s Natural Wonders

Jul 12, 2025 21:36 PM
Interior of a Kimpton Ubud guest room with garden view

Kimpton Hotel to Open for the First Time in Ubud’s Historic Centre

Jul 12, 2025 13:41 PM
Protester in high-visibility vest shouting through megaphone during a strike

Glasgow Airport Strike to Hit Summer Flights and Holiday Plans

Jul 12, 2025 05:27 AM

Calder Valley Route Boost Ensures Smoother Travel During Huddersfield Station Upgrade

Jul 12, 2025 03:34 AM

Croatia Airlines Connects Milan to Zagreb with Direct Flights

Jul 11, 2025 23:45 PM
Boats anchored near Es Vedrà rock off the coast of Cala Molí, Ibiza

EDITION Moves Beyond Hotels with Series of Beach Events in Ibiza

Jul 11, 2025 22:52 PM
Stylish bed with decorative pillows and modern lighting in a villa bedroom

Maldives Beach Villas Redesigned to Meet Growing Demand for Privacy and Nature Immersion

Jul 11, 2025 18:38 PM
flydubai aircraft taxiing on airport runway

flydubai Launches All-in-One Summer Travel Packages for Regional Trips

Jul 11, 2025 16:46 PM
Railway maintenance vehicles on track under clear blue sky

Rail Closures on Brighton Line This Sunday Could Disrupt Weekend Travel Plans

Jul 11, 2025 04:23 AM

Eurostar Updates Route: New Daily Services Between London and Amsterdam

Jul 11, 2025 02:39 AM

Wizz Air’s Early Return Reconnects Tel Aviv with Key Cities

Jul 10, 2025 23:47 PM
Workers in high-visibility gear conduct railway maintenance using machinery on a curved track under construction

Rail Maintenance in South Wales to Disrupt Travel Near Cardiff Airport and Coastal Attractions

Jul 10, 2025 21:31 PM
Jet2.com airplane flying against a clear blue sky

Jet2.com Expands UK Winter Flights to Key Alpine Destinations for 2026/27 Season

Jul 10, 2025 19:25 PM
Modern hotel bedroom with dark accent wall and stylish bedding

Bangkok’s Historic Anantara Siam Hotel Updates Facilities While Welcoming Guests

Jul 10, 2025 18:48 PM
Passenger using smartphone during a flight

Free In-Flight Wi-Fi Coming to All China Airlines Cabins This August

Jul 10, 2025 09:32 AM
Railway workers and equipment on a closed section of track during construction works

Bridge Works to Sever Rail Traffic Between Kew and Barnes for Nine Days

Jul 9, 2025 21:27 PM

Wizz Air Launches Mobile Feature to Manage Summer Flight Disruptions

Jul 9, 2025 19:34 PM

Facial Recognition Boarding Now in Use at JFK Terminal 1

Jul 9, 2025 17:43 PM
Emirates aircraft taking off from runway

Emirates Adjusts Gulf Travel with New Aircraft on Key Route

Jul 9, 2025 09:29 AM
Rail workers performing track maintenance at a train station during daytime

Planned Rail Works to Impact Night Trains Between Llandudno and Holyhead

Jul 9, 2025 07:36 AM