Minister Abdulla Khaleel was unable to explain the delay in banning Israeli passports in the Maldives, despite a government decision made in June 2024. Amendments to the Maldives Immigration Act are still pending, and there have been no evident efforts to expedite the process. The government maintains its commitment to Palestinian rights and support for their independence.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel has not clarified why Israeli passports remain unbanned in the Maldives. This inquiry arose from a question by MP Mohamed Ibrahim, referencing Article 7(d) of the Maldives Foreign Service Act, which assigns the minister the duty to advise on matters regarding diplomatic recognition and relationships with foreign nations. Despite President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s decision on June 2, 2024, to ban Israeli passport entries, implementation has stalled due to the need for amendments to the Maldives Immigration Act.
In his reply, Minister Khaleel emphasized that the necessary amendments are under review at the parliamentary committee stage. He assured that once ratified, the ban on Israeli passports will be enacted. However, Khaleel did not discuss any actions taken by himself or the ministry to hasten this legislative process nor did he address the reasons for delays at the parliament despite the government’s majority.
The Minister conveyed that the government is committed to advocating for Palestinian rights, addressing violations in international platforms, and collaborating with Arab and Islamic nations to support Palestine’s independence. He reiterated the Maldives’ longstanding policy of promoting a peaceful independent Palestinian state and mentioned active participation in significant legal matters regarding Palestine.
Additionally, Khaleel indicated ongoing efforts to provide financial and material support to the Palestinian populace, highlighting the government’s dedication to humanitarian assistance in this context.
The response from Minister Khaleel reveals a lack of clarity regarding the implementation of the Israeli passport ban in the Maldives. While legislative amendments are pending, the minister’s failure to expedite the process raises questions about political will. Nonetheless, the government asserts its commitment to Palestinian advocacy and support, maintaining its longstanding policy of promoting an independent Palestinian state and addressing humanitarian needs.
Original Source: raajje.mv
