In the midst of the ongoing diplomatic dispute between India and the Maldives, Israel has declared its intention to launch a desalination program in Lakshadweep, further complicating the situation for the Maldives. The Israeli embassy in India not only expressed solidarity with Lakshadweep but also pledged support for tourism promotion in the region while highlighting their prior involvement in a desalination initiative at the Indian government’s request.
This move is perceived as a diplomatic setback for the Maldives, especially in the wake of criticism from Maldivian ministers regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s social media post about Lakshadweep. The suspension of three deputy ministers in response to their remarks underscores the escalating tensions and the diplomatic repercussions faced by the Maldives.
The Israeli embassy’s statement on January 9 emphasized its readiness to resume work on the desalination project immediately, showcasing images of Lakshadweep’s pristine beaches and majestic underwater landscapes to highlight its captivating beauty.
Simultaneously, the Maldivian envoy to India was summoned to the external affairs ministry on January 8, where strong concerns were conveyed about disparaging remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi made by several Maldivian ministers on social media. In response, three deputy ministers in the Maldivian government were suspended.
The Maldivian foreign ministry clarified that derogatory remarks on social media against foreign leaders represent personal views and do not reflect the official position of the country.
Amid the diplomatic rift, online insurance platform InsuranceDekho announced the suspension of travel insurance issuance to the Maldives, citing the diplomatic row and emphasizing the exploration of India’s own island treasures. Earlier, online travel platform EaseMyTrip had also suspended all Maldives flight bookings over the India-Maldives diplomatic rift.
