Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka:
Despite warnings from the Israeli government about a potential terrorist threat, the last remaining Israelis in the picturesque surfing destination of Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka have chosen to stay, feeling safe and secure.
The Israeli national security council issued a call on Wednesday for Israelis to evacuate tourist areas in the southern part of Sri Lanka, citing intelligence regarding a possible terrorist threat targeting tourist spots and beaches.
While the nature of the threat was not specified, the warning specifically mentioned the Arugam Bay area, a popular destination for Israeli tourists, as well as beaches in the south and west of the country.
Following suit, the US embassy in Sri Lanka and the German foreign ministry also issued similar warnings, leading to heightened security measures in Colombo and increased vigilance.
In response to the threat, Sri Lankan authorities have detained three suspects for questioning in connection with the unspecified threat.
Local authorities reported a significant decrease in the number of Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay, with only three individuals remaining in the town out of the 600-700 visitors who were present during the tourist season.
Despite the warnings, one long-term Israeli resident expressed confidence in the safety measures in place and plans to stay in Sri Lanka with his family, emphasizing their love for the country and the surfing opportunities it offers.
Security personnel, including police special forces, have been deployed in the area to ensure the safety of the remaining Israeli tourists, who have expressed their intention to relocate to nearby towns after the end of the month.
With memories of the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings still vivid, Sri Lanka has ramped up security measures, including checkpoints and increased police presence, to address the current threat landscape.
Amid concerns of tensions related to the presence of Israelis in a Muslim-majority town after recent events in the Middle East, local residents have affirmed the peaceful coexistence and welcoming nature of the community towards foreign visitors.
Israeli tourists are a significant source of income for Arugam Bay, contributing to a large portion of the town’s revenue, according to residents.
(This article has been published from a syndicated feed without any editing by NDTV staff.)
