Israelis Redirected to Indian Beaches Amidst Maldives Ban

In response to the Maldives banning Israeli passport holders during the Gaza conflict, the Israeli Embassy in India suggested Israeli citizens explore scenic Indian beaches. The Maldives receives over a million tourists annually, including 15,748 Israelis in 2023. Israel does not maintain diplomatic ties with the Maldives, suspended since 1974.

Following the Maldivian government's decision to ban Israeli passport holders amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict, the Israeli Embassy in India on Monday recommended its citizens to explore some of India's most picturesque beaches.

The Embassy's social media post, which listed destinations in Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Goa, and Kerala, suggested that Israelis would receive a warm welcome. This move comes as the Maldives, a top tourist destination, hosted over 15,000 Israeli tourists in 2023. However, the current conflict and increased anti-Israel sentiment prompted a travel warning from Israel in December.

Israel and the Maldives have had suspended diplomatic ties since 1974, adding another layer of complexity to the current travel advisories issued by the Israeli Foreign Ministry.