Sri Lanka’s fragile tourism industry, still reeling from the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings and the recent economic crisis, is facing a new threat: a potential terrorist attack. On Wednesday, both the United States and Israel issued urgent travel warnings to their citizens, advising them to steer clear of specific coastal regions, particularly the popular tourist destination of Arugam Bay.
The warnings, based on credible intelligence, indicate a potential attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area. This surfing haven, known for its idyllic beaches and laid-back atmosphere, attracts a significant number of international travelers, including many Israeli tourists. In response, Israel’s National Security Council raised its travel advisory to the highest level (Level 4) for the southern and western coastal areas, including Arugam Bay. The council urged Israeli citizens to evacuate Arugam Bay and the southern and western coastal areas immediately, advising them to either leave Sri Lanka entirely or relocate to Colombo, the capital, where security is more robust. Popular cities like Ahangama, Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Weligama were specifically mentioned in the advisory.
Local media reported that two Sri Lankan nationals were arrested on Thursday in connection with the terror threats against Israelis. One of the suspects had previously been based in Iraq, and intelligence provided by India played a crucial role in their identification. Following these arrests, Sri Lankan authorities have stepped up security measures around Arugam Bay’s Chabad House, a Jewish community center that was reportedly identified as a potential target. Police spokesperson Nihal Thalduwa confirmed that heightened security measures were implemented, acknowledging recent tensions between Jewish tourists and the bay’s Muslim-majority community. It’s worth noting that Chabad House was also a target in the devastating 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks, where seven individuals lost their lives.
Sri Lankan authorities have responded swiftly to the intelligence, deploying hundreds of police officers and intelligence personnel to safeguard vulnerable areas. Roadblocks and security posts have been erected, particularly around places of worship and high-traffic tourist spots. Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya revealed that the first intelligence regarding a potential attack was received on October 7, prompting immediate discussions and operational instructions from Sri Lanka’s security council.
The US Embassy’s warning was echoed by other nations, including Germany and Australia, who also updated their travel advisories, encouraging their citizens to avoid the affected regions in Sri Lanka. The Israeli security establishment is maintaining close contact with Sri Lankan security authorities, closely monitoring developments. Israel has also advised its citizens to avoid gathering in large groups and to maintain heightened vigilance. A police statement confirmed the establishment of a hotline for tourists to report any safety concerns.
The escalating security threat comes at a difficult time for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, which is still trying to recover from the devastating 2019 attacks and the recent economic crisis. During the first eight months of 2023, Sri Lanka welcomed approximately 1.5 million tourists, with Israelis accounting for around 1.5% of this number, or about 20,515 people. Arugam Bay, in particular, has become a popular destination for Israeli travelers, contributing significantly to the local tourism economy. However, the influx of Israeli tourists has sparked tensions in the area, particularly due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Reports indicate that certain segments of the local community, notably within the Muslim population, have called for a boycott of Israeli-owned businesses in the region. Hebrew signage is prevalent in many local establishments, a visible reflection of the Israeli presence. Local Member of Parliament Rehan Jayawickreme expressed concerns about the influx of Israeli tourists, stating on X, “To those Israelis fueling this instability, let me make one thing clear: you cannot forcefully and illegally occupy our lands as you have done elsewhere.” He demanded that Israeli tourists and businesses adhere to the laws of Sri Lanka. The illegal activities of some Israeli business owners have persisted for too long, despite numerous appeals to various governments to address these issues. These appeals have been largely ignored. Now, Sri Lanka faces a serious security threat that could further derail its struggling tourism sector.
The situation in Sri Lanka is further complicated by the ongoing tensions surrounding Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza. Protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza have been reported in the Buddhist-majority nation, though they haven’t escalated into significant violence. While the precise nature of the potential attack remains unclear, concerns have been heightened due to previous terrorist incidents in Sri Lanka. Following the Easter Sunday suicide bombings in 2019, which targeted churches and luxury hotels, killing 270 people and injuring 500 more, Sri Lanka has not witnessed any major terrorist attacks. However, the memory of that tragedy lingers, particularly as foreign tourists return to the country.
Sri Lanka’s police force is committed to ensuring the safety of tourists during the upcoming holiday season, a crucial period for the country’s fragile tourism industry. They have implemented a comprehensive security strategy, taking into account the war situations in West Asia and Eastern Europe, which are creating broader security concerns worldwide. Sri Lanka now faces the challenge of safeguarding its tourism industry while protecting its visitors. With inputs from agencies.
