Israeli authorities have eased their travel warning for Sri Lanka's Arugam Bay, three weeks after issuing a high-level advisory over a terrorist threat to the popular beach town. On Wednesday, the National Security Council (NSC) lowered the warning level for the area from a level four (high threat) to level two, indicating a more occasional threat.

The previous high-level warning extended along Sri Lanka’s southeastern coast, including Hikkaduwa. The entire country has now been downgraded from a level three (moderate threat) to level two, signaling a reduction in the perceived risk.

This decision follows heightened security measures in Sri Lanka, including additional personnel deployed to safeguard tourist areas. The U.S. embassy also lifted its advisory for Arugam Bay the same day.

The original warning came after the arrest of individuals connected to an alleged plot targeting Israeli tourists, including a mass shooting planned by an Afghan national linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Sri Lankan authorities continue to investigate the matter, with additional arrests made.

Despite the easing of warnings, Israeli authorities have urged travelers to remain vigilant and avoid wearing Israeli or Jewish symbols while in Sri Lanka. Protests by local Muslim groups have been linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon, contributing to heightened tensions in the region.

Arugam Bay, a hotspot for Israeli surfers, remains a key destination for tourists despite the recent concerns.