Buddhist Monks Protest Against Chabad Center in Sri Lanka Amid Violence and Legal Disputes

A Chabad center opened about a month ago in Hiriketiya, southern Sri Lanka, has become the focal point of tensions after local residents and Buddhist monks protested nearby. They demanded an investigation into the legality of the center’s operations and called for its closure if found to be operating without proper permits. Meanwhile, Chabad representatives report a series of serious harassment incidents and threats against the center and Israeli tourists visiting the area. During a Friday night Shabbat meal, loud music was played and firecrackers were thrown into the center’s courtyard, along with stone-throwing during the night. Protesters also stopped Israelis on their way to the meal, preventing their approach and detonating firecrackers nearby to intimidate them.

The situation escalated further on Saturday night when several Israelis leaving the center were threatened with sticks until local police intervened and increased security presence. Chabad officials warn that these actions pose a real threat to their emissaries, their families, and tourists, urging the Israeli Foreign Ministry, embassy, and Sri Lankan authorities to urgently intervene, provide permanent security, and investigate the violent incidents. The center operates a kosher restaurant and Shabbat meals for Israeli travelers in southern Sri Lanka.

On the other hand, Sri Lankan media criticized some Israeli tourists’ behavior, claiming it deters other visitors. Reports also allege that Israeli-run businesses operate without required licenses, employ Israelis without proper visas, construct buildings in violation of regulations, and block local access. Buddhist monks and residents are demanding authorities take action, including potentially evicting the Chabad center if it is found to be operating illegally.