Reports Describe Growing Scrutiny of Israeli Tourists Over Military Service in Parts of Asia

Israeli tourists, including former soldiers, are encountering increased scrutiny from local residents in parts of Asia over their military service, according to a report by the Turkish state-run Anadolu Agency.

The report, citing unnamed local sources, said some residents and businesses in Asian tourist destinations popular with Israeli travelers have begun questioning visitors about whether they served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), with some reportedly declining to host or serve those who confirm military service.

Anadolu Agency quoted a phrase circulating among locals — "If you serve the IDF, you're not allowed to come" — reflecting what it described as a broader pushback tied to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

The report characterized the conflict using the term "genocide," a description that Israel has rejected. Israeli officials have consistently maintained that their military operations in Gaza are conducted in self-defense and in response to the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel. The International Court of Justice is separately examining a genocide case brought against Israel, which Israel disputes.

Specific countries, cities, or the scale of the reported incidents were not detailed in the available report. Anadolu Agency did not name the businesses or individuals involved, and it was not immediately possible to independently verify the extent of the phenomenon described.

The war in Gaza, now well into its second year, has drawn significant international attention and protest activity in various parts of the world, including boycotts and demonstrations targeting Israeli products, cultural events, and, according to this report, tourism.

Israeli authorities have not publicly responded to the specific claims made in the Anadolu Agency report at the time of publication.