Israel Advises Citizens to Leave Southern Sri Lanka Tourist Destinations Amid Potential Security Threat

Today, Israel’s National Security Council urged its citizens to promptly leave certain tourist destinations in southern Sri Lanka due to a potential terrorist threat. This advisory came as Sri Lanka heightened security in the Arugam Bay area following concerns about a possible security risk.

The Israeli authorities did not provide specific details about the nature of the threat but emphasized the need for caution. Israeli nationals in Sri Lanka have been advised to avoid large gatherings and be vigilant in public areas.

Security measures have been increased in the Arugam Bay and Pothuvil regions after warnings of a potential threat. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police and Police Spokesman, Nihal Thalduwa, mentioned that the increased security is linked to concerns about a building in Arugam Bay constructed by Israeli nationals, which may be a target.

The DIG of the Eastern Province has ordered additional roadblocks and checkpoints in the region as a precaution. DIG Thalduwa’s statement came soon after the US Embassy in Colombo issued a travel advisory, alerting its citizens about a possible attack targeting popular tourist spots in Arugam Bay.

The US Embassy’s advisory indicated that credible information had been received about the threat, prompting a travel restriction for its personnel to Arugam Bay effective immediately. American citizens were advised to avoid the area until further notice. The United Kingdom has also echoed the US Embassy’s advisory, sharing similar warnings.

The Sri Lankan Police Media Division released a statement, noting that special security arrangements would be implemented due to the expected influx of tourists in the upcoming season. The statement highlighted that considering the situation in the Middle East and other regions, the Public Security Ministry, along with Police and intelligence agencies, is devising a security plan to ensure the safety of visiting tourists.

A new hotline (1997) has been set up for inquiries regarding security concerns. However, the police’s initial statement did not reference the advisory from the US Embassy. DIG Thalduwa clarified that there were no perceived threats to other areas of Sri Lanka outside of Arugam Bay.

The Full US Embassy travel advisory is as follows;

Location: Sri Lanka

Event: The Embassy received credible information warning of an attack targeting popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area. Due to the serious risk posed by this threat, the Embassy imposed a travel restriction on Embassy personnel for Arugam Bay effective immediately and until further notice.

U.S. citizens are strongly urged to avoid the Arugam Bay area until further notice.

Actions to Take:

Report all suspicious activity and emergencies to local authorities (119).
Always maintain vigilance and be aware of your surroundings. Trust your gut, if a situation doesn’t feel right, get out of it.
Always have some form of communication on you (i.e. cell phone).
Monitor local media for news and updates.