The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, has not explained the delay in banning Israeli passports, despite a presidential directive from June 2, 2024. Amendments to the Immigration Act are needed, which are under parliamentary review. The minister emphasized the government’s ongoing advocacy for Palestinian rights and support for an independent Palestine but did not address the slow legislative progress.
Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has not clarified why Israeli passports remain unbanned in the Maldives. This inquiry arose from a written question posed by Mohamed Ibrahim, the MP for North Galolhu, regarding Article 7(d) of the Maldives Foreign Service Act, which mandates the minister to execute the president’s decisions about recognition of foreign states.
On June 2, 2024, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu decided to prohibit entry with Israeli passports, based on recommendations from the Cabinet of Ministers. Minister Khaleel noted that amendments to the Maldives Immigration Act are required to act on this decision, and he indicated that the proposed amendments are currently being reviewed by a parliamentary committee.
Despite his acknowledgment of the government’s intention to ban Israeli passports, Minister Khaleel did not address any measures taken to expedite this legislative process or explain the delays at parliament, especially given the government’s full majority. Furthermore, he affirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights and condemned the injustices faced by Palestinians in various international venues.
Minister Khaleel reiterated the longstanding policy of the Maldives, which supports the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. He elaborated on the country’s participation in significant court cases concerning Palestine and indicated that the administration is working to provide financial and other forms of assistance to the Palestinian people.
In summary, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has yet to provide a satisfactory explanation as to why the prohibition of Israeli passport entries has not been enacted in the Maldives. While he confirmed ongoing efforts to legislate this ban and asserted the government’s commitment to supporting Palestinian rights, the lack of urgency in the parliamentary process raises questions about the administration’s priorities in this issue.
Original Source: raajje.mv
