Israeli dual citizens urged to avoid Maldives over travel ban plans

Israel has warned citizens including those with dual citizenship to avoid the Maldives after the country announced plans to ban Israelis from entering.

The Maldives president’s office said on Sunday that it planned to change its laws due to the war in Gaza, though it did not specify when the ban would be enforced.

The Associated Press reported that Israel’s Foreign Ministry responded by recommending Israelis avoid travelling to the country, with the advice including those with foreign passports.

It also encouraged those currently in the Maldives to consider leaving.

The Maldives is a predominantly Muslim country and the announcement follows growing public anger over the conflict in Gaza.

The statement from the president’s office said a sub-committee would be established to oversee the introduction of the ban, while a special envoy will assess Palestinian needs and start a fundraising campaign.

Israel’s foreign ministry said: “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.”

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