Israel and the United States The 'terrorist' threat against tourists prompted an attack alert in Sri Lanka.

The threat is related to the popular Arugam Bay area, authorities said. 

Abcnews24hr

October 24, 2024,

International headlines from Abcnews24hr

LONDON -- In response to "credible information" about an attack in the southeast of the country, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka, warned its citizens late Tuesday.

In an article on its website, the embassy claimed that the threat was connected to "popular tourist locations in the Arugam Bay area," which is home to well-known and frequently visited beaches that are well-known for their surfing.

Due to the serious risk posed by this threat, the embassy imposed a travel restriction on embassy personnel for Arugam Bay effective immediately and until further notice," the letter read.

Additionally, it stated that Americans "are strongly urged to avoid the Arugam Bay area until further notice."
No other details on the nature or origin of the threat were provided by the embassy.

 The U.S. Department of State seal in Washington, D.C., on January 26, 2017, is depicted in this file photo.
Joshua Roberts/Reuters

The alert advised residents to keep a mobile phone or other communication device handy, report any suspicious activities to the local authorities, and keep an eye on the local media for any updates.

In addition, Israel's National Security Headquarters requested that Israelis evacuate the coastline region in the south and west of Sri Lanka as well as the Arugam Bay area right once, citing "a terrorist threat."

Citing a higher level of local security forces in the capital, Colombo, it recommended Israelis living in the impacted districts, which include the cities of Ahangama, Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Weligama, to either leave the country or move there.

"Israelis planning to come to the country are advised to postpone their trip unless it is an essential trip," the advisory stated.

"Avoid externalizing Israeli identity symbols in the public sphere, including avoiding movement with Hebrew shirts or symbols that betray origin and religion," the NSH advised those who were already in Sri Lanka.

It also advised Israelis to refrain from congregating at unguarded locations.

In its risk advice guidance, the State Department categorizes Sri Lanka as a "Level 2" country, advising Americans to "exercise increased caution."

On October 2, the State Department released its most recent advisory for Sri Lanka, stating that demonstrations against the "economic and political situation in Sri Lanka can erupt at any time."



"In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters," it stated. "U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning."

"Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning," it said, citing a number of targets, including popular tourist destinations, transit hubs, retail centers, government buildings, and entertainment venues.

"The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas," the warning stated.