Colombo, Sri Lanka – Both the United States and Israel issued security alerts on Wednesday cautioning against a potential attack on tourist destinations along the coast of Sri Lanka. The alerts have sparked concerns among travelers and residents in the area.
The US Embassy alarm raised attention to a credible threat targeting popular tourist spots in the Arugam Bay area, prompting immediate travel restrictions for embassy personnel. US citizens were strongly advised to avoid the Arugam Bay region until further notice. Simultaneously, Israel’s National Security Council alerted its citizens to promptly evacuate Arugam Bay, as well as the southern and western coastal areas of Sri Lanka.
Israel increased its travel advisory level for Sri Lanka due to viable terrorism threats specifically identified in tourist and coastal areas. The statement included a recommendation for individuals in the specified regions to depart immediately or relocate to Colombo, where a greater presence of local security forces is noted. Moreover, Israeli citizens were cautioned against displaying any items that could disclose their nationality, religion, or identity.
While the alerts did not elaborate on the specifics of the potential threat, recent protests in Sri Lanka against Israel’s military actions in Gaza have raised concerns. Notably, the nation has not witnessed any major terrorist attacks since the 2019 Easter Sunday attack, where coordinated suicide bombings targeted churches and hotels, resulting in a significant number of casualties and injuries.
The alerts serve as a reminder of the persistent threats posed by terrorism globally and the importance of staying vigilant in high-risk areas. The safety and security of individuals traveling to Sri Lanka, particularly in coastal regions, remain a top priority for both the United States and Israel. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary to ensure the well-being of all citizens and visitors in the area.