Malé – The Maldives has officially banned entry for individuals holding Israeli passports. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu ratified the amendment to the Immigration Act on Tuesday, just hours after it was passed by Parliament.

The ban, which is retroactively effective from October 7, 2023, will remain in place until Israel declares a ceasefire and ends its military operations in Gaza. The restriction applies only to those entering with an Israeli passport and does not affect Israeli citizens holding dual nationality.

The amendment was passed by Parliament on Tuesday morning, following approval by the Parliament’s Security Services Committee on Monday. The travel ban was initially proposed and endorsed by the Cabinet in June 2024.

The Maldives, which does not maintain diplomatic ties with Israel, has long supported the Palestinian cause. President Muizzu, a vocal advocate for Palestine, has reiterated that the Maldives will always stand with the Palestinian people.

The decision comes amid growing international condemnation of Israel's military actions in Gaza and increasing calls for the protection of civilians.