The Maldives Parliament’s Committee on National Security Services (241 Committee), has commenced work a bill that seeks to amend the Maldives Immigration Act to prohibit Israeli citizens from entering the country, following increasing concerns about Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

This bill, introduced by MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem from the opposition, aims to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives by adding them to the list of individuals banned from entry under Article 8 of the Immigration Act.

The committee has scheduled the matter for its Tuesday session, where members will begin setting a timeline for finalising the bill and consulting relevant authorities.

The bill had previously passed its initial parliamentary vote unanimously on June 10 but had been delayed in committee for five months.

MP Naseem recently urged Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdullah to address the prolonged delay. Leaders from both the ruling PNC and opposition MDP have pushed for accelerated progress on the bill, citing the Maldives’ commitment to support Palestine and take a firm stance on this issue.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s cabinet has also voiced support for the proposed amendment, with a special committee formed to facilitate this process. This committee includes key ministers, such as Domestic Security and Finance Minister Ali Ihsan, Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, and Attorney General Ahmed Usham, who are tasked with implementing necessary legal changes. Homeland Security Minister Ihsan expressed confidence that, with the current parliamentary majority, the amendment could be swiftly enacted, reflecting the administration’s dedication to addressing the matter urgently.