Former Weligama Mayor and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) member Rehan Jayawickrema has raised concerns over the threats to Sri Lanka due to the surge in Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay.
Commenting on the travel advisory issued by the US Embassy in Colombo on potential threats to its citizens in Arugam Bay, as a result, Rehan Jayawickrema pointed out that Sri Lanka was now facing a serious security threat that could derail the nation’s tourism recovery efforts.
Taking to ‘X’, he said the illegal activities of certain Israeli business owners have persisted for far too long and that despite numerous appeals to various governments to put an end to this and ensure fair play, these requests have been ignored.
Calling on the authorities to address this situation with urgency, he said “If these warnings continue to be dismissed, the repercussions for Sri Lanka could be more severe than we anticipate.”
Rehan Jayawickrema went on to note that as the Arugam Bay season winds down, the Southern season begins, but the presence of heavy roadblocks in Weligama was already causing fear among tourists, casting a shadow over their sense of safety.
“To those Israelis fueling this instability, let me make one thing clear: you cannot forcefully and illegally occupy our lands as you have done elsewhere. You cannot conduct illegal business practices and ruin opportunities for others. Even though we have welcomed you to this beautiful island, this is not your country, and you must respect the laws of this land,” he added.
Concerns have been raised and travel advisories have been issued by several countries after reports of a surge in Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay, their recent occupation of a building in the area, and the opening of several shops, and restaurants with signboards in Hebrew. (Newswire)