Protest, threats reported over Chabad House in Hiriketiya

A recently opened Chabad House in Hiriketiya, in southern Sri Lanka, has reportedly faced a series of protests, threats and acts of harassment by some local residents, prompting calls for urgent intervention to ensure the safety of Israeli tourists and staff.

A protest was held near the Chabad House on Friday, led by Buddhist monks, with protesters calling on authorities to investigate the legality of the establishment and close it if it is found to be operating without the required permits.

The Chabad House was established to serve Israeli and Jewish tourists visiting the area. It operates a kosher restaurant, hosts Shabbat meals and provides accommodation and other services to Israeli travellers.

However, some local officials and residents have raised concerns over what they describe as religious and commercial activities being conducted at the premises.

According to Chabad officials, the situation escalated during a Shabbat dinner on Friday evening, when protesters allegedly gathered near the premises, played loud music, set off firecrackers and threw stones into the compound.

They also alleged that Israeli tourists travelling to the Chabad House for the Shabbat meal were stopped by protesters and told not to enter the premises.

Firecrackers were allegedly set off near some of the visitors in an attempt to frighten them and prevent them from reaching the site.

Chabad officials said the situation escalated further after Shabbat ended, when several Israelis leaving the premises were allegedly threatened by individuals carrying sticks.

The situation reportedly calmed after local police returned to the area and increased security around the Chabad House.

Chabad officials warned that the incidents posed a serious threat to their emissaries, their families and Israeli tourists visiting the facility, and urged the authorities to intervene immediately to prevent further escalation.

“The Chabad House was opened to serve Israeli tourists in Hiriketiya, allow them to eat kosher food and provide them with a warm and safe place far from home,” a Chabad official was quoted as saying.

“We now need urgent help so we can continue operating safely,” the official said.

The Chabad House has called for the authorities to address the dispute and ensure the safety of those visiting and working at the premises.