India finds itself amid a geopolitical tussle as the Israeli Embassy encouraged its citizens on Monday to consider India as a tourist destination. This development followed the Maldivian government’s announcement prohibiting Israeli tourists from entering the island nation. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu made this decision in solidarity with Gaza, which has been under airstrikes by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) for nearly eight months.
In a post on X, the Israeli Embassy in India stated, “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,” and shared a list of recommendations.
The post highlighted the beautiful beaches of Goa, Kerala, Lakshadweep, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as alternative destinations to the Maldives, known for its serene beaches.
This promotion by the Israeli Embassy coincides with strained India-Maldives relations following President Mohamed Muizzu’s election. Muizzu, who came to power with the ‘India OUT’ campaign, has shown close ties with China and forced India to withdraw its troops from the Maldives.
Interestingly, Israel is mirroring India’s approach to dealing with the Maldives. Earlier this year, a boycott of the Maldives trended in India after Maldivian ministers used abusive language toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Many Indian tourists canceled their holiday plans, and several tourism companies suspended services to the Maldives.
During that period, India’s beach destinations like Lakshadweep saw a significant increase in visitors as Indians opted for domestic vacations.
The impact of India’s boycott was soon apparent. Last month, a Maldivian minister appealed to Indians to support Maldivian tourism, emphasizing the country’s economic dependence on it. Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal said, “We have a history. Our newly elected government also wants to work together with India. We always promote peace and a friendly environment. Our people and the government will give a warm welcome to Indian arrivals. As the Tourism Minister, I want to tell Indians to please be a part of Maldives’ tourism. Our economy depends on tourism.”
