Gasim Opposes Bill to Ban Israeli Passport Holders from Maldives

Maamigili MP Gasim Ibrahim has expressed opposition to a proposed bill aiming to prohibit holders of Israeli passports from entering the Maldives amid the ongoing genocide in Palestine.

The bill, put forward by South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), seeks to amend the Immigration Act to enforce the ban on Israeli passport holders from entering the country.

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According to the bill, individuals holding dual citizenship, with one being Israeli, would also be subject to the ban.

He criticised the inclusion of the ban on dual passport holders, arguing that it lacked thorough research and sufficient consideration of its potential ramifications.

Gasim alleged that the proposed measure appeared to be politically motivated, aimed at undermining the current government and fostering division among the populace.

Asserting the need for prudence in decision-making, Gasim emphasised the importance of prioritising the security and well-being of the Maldives.

Referring to the responsibility of parliamentarians to represent the interests of the people, Gasim refrained from commenting on the government’s stance, urging the parliament to deliberate with patience and foresight.

In response to Gasim’s assertions, Meekail defended the bill’s intentions, highlighting that similar concerns had been raised in previous parliamentary sessions, with a resolution passed to advocate for the ban on Israeli passport holders.

The government has also signalled its support for amending the law in line with the proposed restrictions.

Data revealed a decline in Israeli tourist arrivals to the Maldives, with approximately 11,000 visitors recorded last year, marking a 30 percent decrease from the previous year. From December to April this year, 528 tourists from Israel visited the Maldives.