The Maldives has announced a ban on Israeli travelers entering the country, a decision driven by public outrage in the predominantly Muslim archipelago over the ongoing war in Gaza.

The office of Maldives’ President Mohamed Muizzu stated that his cabinet has decided to amend laws to prohibit Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives. Additionally, a subcommittee will be established to oversee the implementation of this ban.

President Muizzu also plans to appoint a special envoy to evaluate the needs of the Palestinian people and to initiate a fundraising campaign to support them. This move is part of a broader show of solidarity with Palestinians amid escalating tensions and violence in Gaza.

In response to the Maldives’ announcement, Israel’s foreign ministry has advised its citizens, including those with dual citizenship, to avoid traveling to the Maldives. For those already in the Maldives, the ministry has suggested considering leaving the country. “For Israeli citizens already in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving, because if they find themselves in distress for any reason, it will be difficult for us to assist,” the ministry stated.

According to data from the Maldives government, 528 Israeli nationals visited the archipelago in the first four months of this year, a significant decrease from the 4,644 who visited during the same period in 2023. Last year, nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the Maldives, making up 0.6% of the total tourist arrivals.

The ban comes in the wake of large protests in Tel Aviv, where tens of thousands of demonstrators called for the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the immediate release of hostages. This domestic unrest adds to the already tense international landscape influenced by the conflict in Gaza.

As the Maldives moves forward with its decision, the impact on tourism and diplomatic relations remains to be seen. The ban on Israeli travelers is a significant stance by the Maldivian government, reflecting the broader regional and global tensions surrounding the conflict in Gaza.