Amidst the ongoing conflict between Gaza and Israel, India’s renowned coastal beaches have unexpectedly found themselves in the global spotlight.
The Maldives, celebrated for its breathtaking beaches and lavish resorts, made headlines on June 2 by declaring a ban on Israeli citizens from entering the island nation as a gesture of solidarity with Gaza.
Responding to this move, Israel’s embassy in India took to social media on June 3, highlighting the splendor of Indian beaches in Lakshadweep, Kerala, Goa, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. “With the Maldives no longer accessible to Israelis, we warmly welcome them to explore the stunning beaches of India,” the embassy shared, along with captivating images of Indian shores.
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… pic.twitter.com/kGNEDS6fsp
— Israel in India (@IsraelinIndia) June 3, 2024
In a tongue-in-cheek response, the consul general of Israel to the midwest India expressed mock appreciation to the Maldivian government, stating, “Thanks to the decision by the Maldives Government, Israelis can now discover the enchanting beaches of Lakshadweep.”
The Maldivian government’s decision to prohibit entry for Israeli passport holders into the Indian Ocean archipelago came amidst growing public outcry over Israeli military actions in Gaza. Home Minister Ali Ihusan announced the decision at an urgent press briefing held at the President’s Office, as reported by Sun.mv. “The cabinet has resolved to swiftly enact legal amendments to enforce the ban on Israeli passport holders entering the Maldives,” he stated, revealing that a special ministerial committee has been established to expedite the process.
With over a million tourists visiting the Maldives annually, including approximately 15,000 from Israel, the cabinet also pledged to appoint a special presidential envoy to assess Palestine’s needs and coordinate fundraising initiatives to aid Palestinians through the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
