Thu Oct 24 12:40:20 UTC 2024: **Summary of the News Article:**

– **Threat to Israelis:** Israel’s national security council has warned its citizens to avoid tourist spots in southern Sri Lanka, particularly Arugam Bay, due to credible terrorist threats targeting Israelis.

– **Security Advisory:** The security council designated Arugam Bay a level four threat, advising Israelis to hide their Jewish identity and avoid large gatherings. The council is maintaining close contact with Sri Lankan authorities regarding the situation.

– **Sri Lankan Police Response:** Sri Lankan police received intelligence about potential attacks aimed at foreign nationals on October 7 and have increased security measures, including deploying hundreds of officers and establishing roadblocks.

– **Warnings from Other Countries:** Following the threats, the US embassy in Sri Lanka also warned about potential attacks targeting Israeli travelers. Other countries, like the UK and Australia, updated their travel advisories.

– **Tensions Rising:** There is rising tension in Arugam Bay due to an influx of Israeli tourists and businesses, with reports of calls for boycotts from parts of the local Muslim community in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

– **Local MP’s Statement:** Local MP Rehan Jayawickreme criticized Israeli businesses for allegedly operating illegally and suggested that their presence poses a security risk to Sri Lanka’s recovery in tourism.

– **Sri Lanka’s History of Attacks:** Sri Lanka has a troubling history of terrorist attacks on tourists, notably the 2019 Easter bombings that killed 270 people, including foreigners.

– **Safety Measures for Tourists:** In response to the growing tourist numbers, Sri Lankan authorities are developing strategies to ensure the safety of visitors, considering the regional conflict situations.

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