Israeli diplomats have recommended a string of idylic Indian beaches to visit after the Maldives’ government prohibited citizens of the Jewish state from entering their country.
On Sunday, the small South Asian nation announced that they were banning Israelis in response to the war in Gaza.
Nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the Maldives last year, making up 0.6 per cent of the total number of tourists travelling to the archipelago.
During the year to date, however, just 528 have visited – down 88 on the same period last year.
President Mohamed Muizu is also set to launch a fundraising campaign and appoint a special envoy to examine how his country might support Palestine.
The Maldives, which is almost exclusively populated by Muslims, is known for its shining white beaches and luxury holiday resorts.
The Israelis who are no longer able to visit, however, can simply turn to Indian destinations instead, say their representatives in the South Asian country.
"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,” Israel’s embassy in India wrote on Instagram.
Lakshadweep, an island off the coast of Kerala, Goa, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are all top picks of the Jewish state’s diplomats, the embassy added.
In a statement, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “In light of the Maldives government's decision to ban the entry of individuals with Israeli passports, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends that Israeli citizens avoid any travel to the Maldives.
“The recommendation is also valid for Israeli citizens holding a foreign passport, in addition to their Israeli passport.
“For Israeli citizens staying in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving, as should they fall into distress, for any reason, it will be difficult for us to provide assistance.”
Israel has not had diplomatic ties with the Maldives since 1974, but its citizens have been able to visit since a previous travel ban was lifted in the early 1990s.
