Terror Alert in Sri Lanka: Israeli Citizens Urged to Leave Popular Tourist Spots Amid Threats

INDC Network : Shri Lanka : In a concerning development, Israel’s National Security Council has issued a stark warning to its citizens traveling or residing in southern Sri Lanka, urging them to leave the region immediately. The warning is based on intelligence regarding a potential terrorist threat targeting popular tourist destinations, particularly the surfing hotspot of Arugam Bay, located on the southern coast of the island.

The Israeli security establishment has classified the threat as level four, the highest threat level, signaling a serious risk to the safety of Israeli citizens. The National Security Council cautioned Israelis to conceal their Jewish identity, refrain from gathering in large groups, and take extra precautions until the situation stabilizes.

Terror Threat in Arugam Bay

According to the Israeli authorities, the warning stems from information provided by Sri Lankan security officials, who alerted them to a terrorist threat centered on tourist areas and beaches in the southern parts of the island, specifically around Arugam Bay. This area, known for its pristine beaches and world-class surf, attracts thousands of international tourists annually, including a significant number of Israelis.

Although the Sri Lankan police have not disclosed the exact nature of the threats or the group behind them, it is clear that the warnings are directed specifically at Israeli tourists and residents. Following the intelligence report, the Sri Lankan government has dispatched hundreds of police and intelligence officers to the region, installing security checkpoints and roadblocks around worship places and tourist areas.

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Heightened Security Measures and Local Tensions

The Israeli National Security Council is working in close coordination with Sri Lankan authorities to monitor the situation and assess potential risks. Meanwhile, local police and security personnel are on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents. Sri Lankan police chief Priyantha Weerasuriya confirmed that intelligence about the threat first surfaced in early October, prompting a security review by the Sri Lankan Security Council.

In response, the authorities deployed police forces and established a network of roadblocks and security patrols around sensitive areas.

While security efforts are being ramped up, tensions have also been simmering in Arugam Bay due to the increasing presence of Israeli tourists and businesses in the area. The recent surge in Hebrew-language signage, along with the establishment of several Israeli-run businesses, has raised concerns among certain sections of the local population.

Diplomatic Tensions and Local Backlash

Some local leaders have criticized the rapid influx of Israeli businesses, with Rehan Jayawickreme, a local politician, accusing these establishments of operating illegally and posing a serious security risk to the region. In a strongly-worded statement, Jayawickreme accused some Israelis of trying to "forcefully and illegally" take control of local lands, a reference to similar controversies involving Israel in other parts of the world. He urged Israeli tourists and business owners to respect Sri Lanka’s laws and maintain peace in the region.

These tensions have been further exacerbated by the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, which has inflamed sentiments among sections of Sri Lanka’s Muslim community, leading to calls for a boycott of Israeli businesses in the area.

U.S. and Global Warnings

Earlier this week, the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka also issued a security alert, warning of credible threats targeting popular tourist spots in the eastern part of Arugam Bay. The embassy advised American citizens to avoid the area and remain cautious. Similar updates were issued by the U.K. and Australian governments, warning their citizens to stay vigilant while traveling in Sri Lanka.

This heightened alert comes at a crucial time for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, which is still struggling to recover from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The country, which heavily relies on tourism for revenue, has been working hard to rebuild its image as a safe destination. Israel has been a key market for Sri Lanka, with special long-term visas offered to attract Israeli tourists.

Historical Context of Terror Attacks in Sri Lanka

This is not the first time that tourists in Sri Lanka have been the target of terror attacks. In April 2019, the country was rocked by the Easter bombings, where Islamic extremists targeted luxury hotels and churches, killing 270 people, including 45 foreigners. The attack was one of the deadliest in the country’s history, and its aftermath continues to affect Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The case remains unresolved, with ongoing accusations of political interference in the investigation.

In light of these historical precedents and the current threats, Sri Lankan authorities have developed a comprehensive security strategy to ensure the safety of tourists, with a particular focus on regions with a high influx of international visitors.

As tensions rise and the situation develops, Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka are being urged to stay alert, follow security advisories, and leave areas identified as high-risk. Both Israeli and Sri Lankan security forces remain in close communication, with further updates expected as the situation unfolds.