The Maldives just slammed the door on Israeli tourists. President Mohamed Muizzu banned all Israeli passport holders from entering the island paradise. His government claims it’s standing with Palestinians against what they call Israel’s “genocide” in Gaza. This radical move puts Islamic solidarity above common sense.
Muizzu’s office says the ban reflects their “firm stance” against Israeli “atrocities.” They’re pushing for an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. Never mind that Israel defends itself against Hamas terrorists who started this war. The Maldives would rather side with militants than support a key US ally.
This isn’t the first time the Maldives has targeted Israel. They broke diplomatic ties back in 1974 and now revive old hostilities. Despite briefly allowing Israeli tourists since the 1990s, Islamic hardliners demanded this ban. Muizzu caves to extremists instead of fostering peace.
Only 59 Israelis visited the Maldives this February – barely a drop in their tourism bucket. Last year’s 11,000 Israeli tourists made up just 0.6% of visitors. This political stunt hurts locals more than Israel. Resorts lose business while Muizzu postures for his radical base.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry warned citizens months ago to avoid the Maldives. Wise advice in a nation where Islam rules supreme. Their constitution bans non-Muslims from citizenship. Christians and Jews aren’t welcome – only Sharia-compliant tourists need apply.
Rev. Johnnie Moore blasted the ban as dangerous Islamic extremism. His Christian coalition warns believers to boycott the Maldives too. When countries punish people for their nationality or faith, freedom-loving nations must take notice. This isn’t solidarity – it’s religious bigotry.
The Maldives’ travel ban feeds growing anti-Israel hatred worldwide. Turkey halted construction exports to Israel. Pro-Hamas activists hunt Israeli soldiers abroad. Each new boycott chips away at Israel’s right to defend itself. The free world must push back hard.
Muizzu’s decision cheers radicals but hurts his people. Israelis will vacation elsewhere while the Maldives sinks deeper into extremism. Real leadership requires balancing principle with practicality. Instead, this ban proves the Maldives values hate over hospitality.
