In a concerning development for tourists, particularly those from Israel, the US Embassy in Sri Lanka issued a warning on 23 October 2024 regarding possible attacks in the country. This has prompted Sri Lankan authorities to ramp up security measures, particularly in popular tourist spots like Arugam Bay.
Crackdown on Potential Threats
Following the warning, Sri Lankan police arrested three local men suspected of being involved in a plot to target a Jewish community centre. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed the arrests and stated that they are taking the US warning seriously, thereby increasing security across major tourist locations.
Recent Security Measures
- Deployment of troops to Arugam Bay and other tourist hotspots.
- Establishment of a hotline for Israelis to report safety concerns.
- Intensified coordination with intelligence agencies to monitor threats.
Tourism Dynamics
Despite the warning, Sri Lanka remains a vibrant destination for tourists, with around 1.5 million visitors recorded in the first nine months of 2024. Israeli tourists, however, accounted for less than 1.5% of this figure—translating to approximately 20,000 individuals.
Arugam Bay is particularly popular among Israeli surfers, being situated around 400 kilometers east of Colombo. However, following increased tensions tied to ongoing conflicts, calls for a boycott of Israeli businesses in the area have emerged, further escalating community tensions.
Historical Context
Sri Lanka has remained relatively peaceful since the tragic 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed 279 people. These coordinated attacks were a grim reminder of the potential for violence and led to a significant decline in tourism. Recent recovery in tourism numbers was aided by an International Monetary Fund bailout in 2023, which stabilised the economy.
International Response
In light of the potential threat, several countries, including Australia, Britain, Canada, and New Zealand, have echoed the US Embassy’s warning on their official platforms. Meanwhile, the Russian embassy has advised its nationals to steer clear of crowded places while visiting the island.