Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya, in Daily Mirror, 24 June 2025
- Sri Lanka monitors Mideast tensions
- Sri Lanka a hotspot for Israeli, Iranian tourists
- Israeli tourist arrivals nearly double Iranians in 2025
- A total of 10,899 Israeli tourists arrived in Sri Lanka between January and June 18 this year, while 5,782 tourists from Iran visited during the first five months of the year.
– In response to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, a minister said that Sri Lanka has enhanced security at key locations and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding all tourists and citizens.
Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala said that precautionary measures are already in place to ensure the safety of all tourists. “We have provided security to the Israeli nationals in Sri Lanka,” Minister Wijepala said. “The government is taking all necessary steps to maintain peace and stability across the island and to safeguard both our citizens and foreign nationals during this volatile time,” he said.
He said that a significant number of Iranian and Israeli tourists are currently in Sri Lanka and assured that there is no threat to their safety.
According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), 10,899 tourists from Israel arrived in Sri Lanka between January and June 18 this year, while 5,782 tourists from Iran visited during the first five months of the year.
In response to potential threats following the escalation of the Gaza conflict, Sri Lanka Police have increased security at Chabad houses (Jewish community centres) located in various parts of the country, where Israeli residents and tourists engage in religious activities and access amenities.
Israeli tourists, including popular surfing communities in Arugam Bay, have also been placed under enhanced protection.
Police said that any potential threats to foreign nationals will be continuously assessed, with appropriate security measures implemented as necessary.
Meanwhile, Minister Wijepala said that the Sri Lanka Foreign Ministry is also engaging in diplomatic efforts to ensure the safety of Sri Lankans currently residing in Iran and Israel.
In the wake of the escalating instability in the Middle East, the U.S. Department of State issued a Worldwide Caution Security Alert on Sunday, advising American citizens overseas to exercise increased caution.
“The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East. There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad,” the State Department said.
According to the SLTDA, over 30,000 tourists have arrived from the United States since January this year, including 2,202 arrivals so far this month.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
When the US was at its zenith, the Ugly American strode the World.
Today, he has been replaced by the ugly Israeli. But with a difference. The American threw his $ around gracelessly, the Israeli flaunts his aloof superiority. Stupendous violence and Genocide without culpability or reproach has made him insufferable.
Coastal Arugam Bay has become an R&R site for the Israeli. He recovers from shooting into food queues and hospital beds, at the beach.
There is a constant core number during the season. Enough to establish his own surf school, restaurant and general store.
He contributes little or nothing to the local economy. A little island of people with minimum local contact but plenty of security paid for by the host.