'Ditch Maldives, explore Indian beaches': Israel after Maldives ban entry of its citizens
PTC Web Desk: After the Maldives announced a ban on Israeli passport holders entering the country, the Israel Embassy in India encouraged Israeli citizens to visit India and explore Indian beaches. The embassy stated that Israeli tourists are warmly welcomed in India.
The Israel Embassy in India also recommended some Indian destinations, including Goa, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Kerala. The post featured photos of beaches in Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Goa, and Kerala.
The Israel Embassy in India wrote on X, "Since the Maldives is no longer welcoming Israelis, here are some beautiful and amazing Indian beaches where Israeli tourists are warmly welcomed and treated with utmost hospitality. Check out these recommendations from @IsraelinIndia, based on the places visited by our diplomats."
Kobbi Shoshani, the Israeli consul general in Mumbai, even reacted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's January post in which he praised Lakshadweep's natural beauty.
Shoshani posted on X, "Thanks to the Maldives Government's decision Israelis can now explore the beautiful beaches of #Lakshadweep."
The statement from the Israel Embassy in India comes after the Maldives announced on Sunday that it would ban the entry of individuals with Israeli passports into the country.
Ali Ihsaan, Maldives Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, announced the decision during a press conference at the Maldives President's Office on Sunday.
The Maldives President's Office issued a press release stating that "President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, following a recommendation from the Cabinet, has resolved to impose a ban on Israeli passports."
"The Cabinet decision includes amending necessary laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives and establishing a Cabinet subcommittee to oversee these efforts," the statement read.
Furthermore, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has appointed a special envoy to assess Palestinians' needs. He has also decided to launch a fundraising campaign to help the Palestinian people, with the assistance of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
- With inputs from agencies
