The impact of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine is now visible on international travel and the strength of passports. Many countries of the world have completely banned Israeli passport holders from entering their countries. According to the latest information, about 16 to 17 countries have adopted this tough stance, which has increased the problems of Israeli citizens and tourists visiting there. These sanctions have been imposed primarily in response to the lack of diplomatic relations and the ongoing war in Gaza.
There is a complete ban on Israeli passports in these countries
Many Muslim countries and other nations around the world have banned Israeli passports. Many Gulf countries are also included in the list of these countries. Some countries have also banned travelers whose passports contain an Israeli visa or any proof of travel there.
Main countries with restrictions: Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Brunei, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Yemen.
Saudi Arabia’s rule: Israeli passport holders are prohibited from entering here except for religious and business purposes.
Malaysian rule: Entry here requires a special approval permit from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Withholding of visa records: Afghanistan, Iran, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Syria and Yemen deny entry even to non-Israelis who have ever had an Israeli visa in their passport.
New strict rules of Maldives and Bangladesh
The Maldivian Parliament has amended the Immigration Act in April 2025, restricting entry to the country to those traveling on Israeli passports. This ban will remain in effect until the conflict against Palestine stops. However Israeli citizens with dual citizenship can travel to the Maldives using the passport of the other country. Bangladesh has also reinstated the old rule restricting travel to Israel on its passport, which states that the passport is valid for all countries except Israel.
Israel also changed the rules for its citizens
While other countries are imposing restrictions, Israel has also made major changes in its entry and exit rules. The new rules will affect immigrants and tourists coming to Israel.
Type of rule Description and time limit ETA-IL Mandatory Travelers from visa-exempt countries must obtain this permit from January 2025. New Passport Rules New immigrants will not be able to obtain an Israeli passport for the first 3 months. Exit Permit: Migrants traveling on foreign passports after 30 September 2026 will need a permit. Entry Ban Israel also barred the entry of the UN Secretary General in October 2024.
