Authorities in the Maldives have refuted the claims of allowing Israeli airlines to operate direct flights between the two nations. The denial came days after a report in Israeli media claimed of starting direct flight connectivity between the two countries.

The popularity of the Maldives among Israeli tourists has grown recently. However, the two nations neither have diplomatic relations nor direct flight connectivity. 

On Tuesday, Israel Hayom, a local news outlet, claimed that Caminos, an Israeli tour operator, will start direct flights from Tel Aviv to the Maldives from September. 

Responding to media reports on Thursday, the Maldives Transport Ministry said they have not “engaged in any discussions” regarding starting air travel between the two countries, nor signed any agreement to that effect. They have not allowed any Israeli airlines to operate in the Maldives, it added. 

The ministry further clarified that they have no plans to allow any Israeli airlines to fly to the country. 

(SAM)