Israel Advises Citizens to Evacuate Maldives Amid Conflict

Israel has advised its citizens, including dual passport holders, to avoid travel to the Maldives and leave the country. This follows the Maldivian government's decision to ban entry for Israeli passport holders amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict. Legal reforms are needed for the ban's implementation.

In a critical advisory issued by the Israeli Foreign Ministry, citizens, including those holding dual nationality, have been urged to avoid travelling to the Maldives and to leave the Indian Ocean archipelago. This follows the Maldivian government's decision to ban Israeli passport holders amidst the escalating conflict in Gaza.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry emphasized the advisory's urgency, citing potential risks for Israeli nationals in the Maldives. The ministry stated, ''For Israeli citizens staying in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving, since if they fall into distress for any reason, it will be difficult for us to help.''

The Maldivian cabinet's decision will require legal amendments for full enforcement. The Maldives, a popular tourist destination, hosted 15,748 Israeli tourists in 2023. Despite a temporary halt in diplomatic ties since 1974, Israeli tourists were previously welcomed after initial diplomatic efforts began over a decade ago. The mounting tensions, however, have prompted Israel's travel warning amid increased anti-Israel sentiment.