Maldives' decision to ban Israel passport a courageous move: Malaysia PM

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has said that it was a courageous move on the part of Maldives to ban entry to the country on Israeli passports.

The Prime Minister made these comments in the joint press conference held today during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's ongoing official visit to Malaysia.

Prime Minister Anwar said that the people and government of Malaysia welcome President Muizzu's decision to ban Israeli passports.

The Prime Minister stated that he shares the same sentiments on the matter, and so respects President Muizzu's decision.

President Muizzu asserted that Maldivians will always stand by Palestine.

The motion to ban entry into the country for Israeli passport holders was first proposed by opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP for South Galolhu Meekail Ahmed Naseem on May 29, 2024. After some changes were brought, the amendment was ratified on April 14.

As the law now stands, entry into Maldives on an Israeli passport is banned. Dual passport holders, even if they hold an Israeli passport, will be allowed entry if they travel on an alternative passport. This change was brought as Immigration stated they do not have the capacity to verify dual passport holders as holding Israeli passports if they present another passport during entry.