Arugam Bay, once an idyllic and peaceful coastal town in the southeast, is facing growing tensions as the number of Israeli tourists, particularly those with military connections, continues to rise. The influx of these visitors, many of whom are linked to Israeli occupation forces, combined with increased security measures, has raised concerns among local businesses, residents and community leaders about the future of Arugam Bay and the spread of Zionism in the region. From April to October, the surfing season brings an influx of tourists and, while the community is preparing to welcome them, there is a sense of caution and concern.
Security concerns and impact on local businesses
The tourism landscape in Arugam Bay has shifted dramatically recently. Since October 2024, when a US embassy security alert prompted the evacuation of US and Israeli tourists, business has been slow. Currently there is a restriction on visa renewals. Local businesses, especially in hospitality and retail, have reported significant declines in trade with fewer tourists coming in. However Israeli tourists, many holding dual citizenship or long term US visas, have faced fewer hurdles in securing long term residence, allowing them to establish businesses with local partners. This has raised concerns about foreign influence, specifically Israeli-backed ventures, taking over key segments of the local economy.
Another striking development in Arugam Bay is the growing military presence. Originally, the military checkpoints along Pottuvil Main Road were seen as necessary for tourist safety. However, locals are now questioning their necessity as the checkpoints seem to serve little function in actual security while causing disruptions to daily life and tourism.
Four permanent checkpoints have been set up along a five kilometer stretch and frequent military patrols have become a common sight. Locals are concerned that the continuation of these checkpoints, particularly during the peak surfing season in April, may be a strategy to divert tourism from the East Coast thus paving the way for foreign investors, especially those linked to Israeli interests, to take control of Arugam Bay’s tourism infrastructure.
Israeli tourists and the spread of Zionism
Arugam Bay has witnessed a notable increase in Israeli tourists, especially in large groups. These visitors often concentrate in the surfing sector where their influence is growing. Israeli tourists are frequently seen bringing their own medical staff, relying on Israeli run restaurants and services and even purchasing scooters and tuk-tuks for personal use, creating a parallel tourism network that is largely isolated from the local community. This behavior has raised concerns that the local businesses are being pushed aside in favor of foreign-backed Israeli ventures.
The most visible symbol of Israeli presence is the Chabad House, a place of worship for Israeli tourists. The area surrounding the Chabad House, located on Mafasa Mosque Road, has become overcrowded in the past creating a sense of displacement among the local population. The sale of land to foreign investors, particularly Israelis, is contributing to fears of gentrification where the local Muslim majority community might eventually be pushed out.
Cultural and social tensions
The growing presence of Israeli tourists has also caused cultural friction, particularly with the local Muslim community. Instances of Israeli tourists wearing swimsuits and bikinis in public areas near mosques and schools have stirred discomfort among locals who feel that their cultural sensitivities are being disregarded.
Moreover, local residents are concerned that the influx of Israeli nationals – many of whom are connected to military forces – is part of a broader strategy to extend Zionism into Sri Lanka. With the presence of Israeli-backed businesses and infrastructure, some worry that Arugam Bay is becoming a center for Zionist expansion, further exacerbating tensions in an already delicate socio-political landscape.
Concerns over law enforcement and surveillance
The increased presence of law enforcement in Arugam Bay has raised alarm bells, especially among local hotel owners and business leaders. Authorities are reportedly requesting daily updates on the nationality of tourists staying at hotels, and a public WhatsApp group has been created to track tourist movements. This has raised concerns about privacy violations and the potential misuse of such information.
In one specific instance, police protection was provided to an Israeli tourist causing discomfort among other hotel guests. The disproportionate level of protection for Israeli tourists has led to accusations of a double standard with locals feeling that their safety and privacy are being compromised for the benefit of foreign nationals.
Long term concerns and speculation
As the situation in Arugam Bay continues to evolve, local residents are growing increasingly concerned about the long term impact of these changes. Some speculate that the combination of military checkpoints, rising foreign investment and the growing presence of Israeli nationals is part of a broader strategy to control the tourism industry and displace the local community.
Hotel owners, especially those in the Arugam Bay Hoteliers Association, have expressed their concerns to the Ministry of Tourism, calling for increased civilian security forces and an end to the overcrowding and noise around the Chabad House. They argue that the current security measures, including military patrols, are more disruptive than protective and that they are ultimately harming local businesses.
The Chabad House and the hundreds of people praying loudly on Fridays until morning are not only a public nuisance but also an attraction for potential attacks. Recently President Anura Kumara Dissanayake highlighted security risks in parliament and some newspapers have reported the growth of an Islamic radical group in Kalmunai, which is just an hour’s drive from Pottuvil. Given the recent brutal killings in Gaza by Israeli occupation forces, especially of children, and the cruelty witnessed by the world, there is growing hatred toward Israelis in general. Starting in April, the Pottuvil community expects an influx of tourists for surfing and this influx may include many Israeli occupation force personnel as well. The Muslim community in Pottuvil feels that the arrival of a large number of Israeli military personnel for recuperation from war fatigue could make their town a potential target.
Locals urge authorities to take immediate action on the following fronts:
- Reevaluate the necessity and effectiveness of ongoing security measures, ensuring a balance between security concerns and the interests of the local tourism sector.
- Address the growing influence of Israeli nationals (also holding American visas and passports) in the tourism industry, ensuring that local businesses are not marginalized or displaced.
- Foster better communication and collaboration between local communities, tourists and authorities to ensure the sustainable development of tourism that respects local culture and customs.
- Carefully assess the role of Israeli occupation forces in Sri Lanka, ensuring that the country does not inadvertently become a sanctuary for those linked to the military occupation of Palestine.
The government must prioritize the interests of its citizens and local communities, protecting the cultural integrity of Arugam Bay and preventing foreign powers, especially those associated with Zionism, from exerting undue influence over this coastal region. This is not only a national security and sovereignty issue but also a moral state obligation.