'Recommended By Diplomats': Maldives Bans Israelis Over Gaza Conflict, Israel Embassy Urges To Visit Indian Beaches

After the Maldives banned Israelis from visiting as a mark of protest against attacks in Gaza, Israel advised its citizens to avoid going there and urged those already in the island country to leave.

Moreover, the Israeli embassy in India urged Israelis to visit Indian beaches, "since the Maldives is no longer welcoming Israelis."

In a post on X, the embassy said, "Here are some beautiful and amazing Indian beaches where Israeli tourists are warmly welcomed and treated with utmost hospitality."

The embassy shared images of Lakshadweep, Goa, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Kerala beaches and said, "Check out these recommendations, based on the places visited by our diplomats."

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted his Lakshadweep photos, three junior ministers in Maldives took it upon themselves to insult India and PM Modi over this.

While the three ministers were suspended, the diplomatic rift between the two nations continues to date with Indians avoiding going to Maldives and opting for its alternatives instead.

Indians topped the tourism chart of Maldives a few months ago, while they stood at sixth position as per May data. The Sri Lankan Tourism Minister himself accepted that this is benefitting his country.

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has formed a subcommittee to monitor the enforcement of the ban, while a campaign "Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine" is going on in the country.