Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel failed to provide a definitive answer regarding the delay in banning Israeli passports in the Maldives, as mandated by President Muizzu’s decision on June 2, 2024. While amendments to the Immigration Act are needed, Khaleel did not clarify efforts to expedite this process. The Maldives maintains its advocacy for Palestinian rights while supporting efforts for independence and providing assistance to Palestine.
Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, was unable to clarify why the Maldives has not yet banned Israeli passports. This question was posed by MP Mohamed Ibrahim, who referenced Article 7(d) of the Maldives Foreign Service Act, outlining the minister’s role in diplomatic relations and the need for implementation of the June 2, 2024, decision to impose such a ban.
In his response, Minister Khaleel indicated that the prohibition on Israeli passports was decreed by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu upon the Cabinet’s recommendations. He mentioned that amendments to the Maldives Immigration Act are essential for executing this decision, which is currently under review in parliament.
Though the minister confirmed that the amendment is in progress, he did not address any initiatives from himself or the ministry to accelerate this legislative process, nor did he elucidate the reasons for the delay, especially given the government’s parliamentary majority.
Furthermore, Minister Khaleel emphasized that the Maldives government persistently champions Palestinian rights and condemns the violations occurring in the region, participating actively in international discussions and legal proceedings concerning Palestine.
He reiterated the government’s longstanding commitment to advocating for an independent Palestinian state, actively providing aid to the Palestinian populace and collaborating with Arab and Islamic nations on this front.
In summary, Minister Khaleel’s failure to clarify the lack of implementation regarding the ban on Israeli passports raises concerns about legislative efficiency in the Maldives. While the government expresses strong support for Palestinian rights and independence, the administrative processes required to see these initiatives through remain unclear and could benefit from more transparency and urgency, particularly given the existing governmental majority.
Original Source: raajje.mv
