Sri Lanka has announced visa fee waivers for travellers from 40 countries in a bid to revive its struggling tourism sector - among them Israel, despite international concern over war crimes being committed in Gaza.
The move, intended to stimulate foreign arrivals and inject much-needed revenue into the island's faltering economy, was confirmed as part of a broader tourism recovery programme. The scheme grants visa fee exemptions to citizens from countries including Germany, India, China, Australia, and notably, Israel.
Authorities have said the policy aims to “attract international visitors and increase cultural exchange,” while boosting Sri Lanka’s post-crisis economy. However, the inclusion of Israel, at a time when its military campaign in Gaza has been widely condemned, has sparked criticism from human rights advocates.
Sri Lanka has long been a popular destination for Israeli tourists, particularly among those who have completed mandatory military service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). However, this has also drawn international scrutiny.
In September 2024, the embassies of Russia, Australia, and the United States issued warnings about credible threats targeting tourist-heavy areas, specifically Arugam Bay in the Eastern Province which has been popular with Israelis. The United States Department of Justice subsequently unsealed criminal charges against an individual allegedly tasked with planning a mass shooting against Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka.
The decision comes as Sri Lanka continues to strengthen bilateral ties with Israel, even as global scrutiny over Israeli military actions intensifies. In recent months, Sri Lanka has sent hundreds of workers to Israel, including during the height of the bombardment of Gaza, drawing backlash from campaigners who argue that Colombo is enabling a state accused of genocide.
Earlier this year, Israeli officials were accused of using tactics drawn from Sri Lanka’s own military campaigns against Tamils, including widespread shelling of civilian areas and targeting of hospitals. Israeli Ambassador Naor Gilon also held meetings with Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary in Colombo to discuss enhancing defence ties.
Last year, an Israeli soldier facing war crimes allegations reportedly fled to Sri Lanka, prompting further alarm.
Despite mounting calls for accountability, both countries have denied wrongdoing and continue to bolster cooperation.
