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View all search resultsImmigration downplays report of IDF-linked investors in Bali
“They are not former IDF members. They simply underwent mandatory military service while living and studying in Israel. It is strongly suspected that the photos circulating online were taken during that period,” head of the Denpasar Immigration Office, R. Haryo Sakti, said.
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This picture taken on Feb. 20, 2020 shows a Balinese temple on the shores of Lake Batur in Bangli regency, Bali. AFP/Sonny Tumbelaka (AFP/Sonny Tumbelaka)
B
ali immigration authorities have downplayed public concerns following online claims that a couple who served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are residing in Bali and managing luxury villas on the popular holiday island.
The allegations, along with pictures of the couple wearing IDF uniforms and footage of them in Bali, have circulated on social media over the past few months, triggering an online backlash.
The IDF’s operations in Gaza are widely considered acts of genocide and a string of heightened repressive actions have been taking place in the occupied West Bank, drawing widespread condemnation in Indonesia, especially given the country's firm support for the Palestinian cause.
Read also: Indonesia welcomes France’s recognition of Palestine
Following the online uproar, Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto said earlier this month that authorities planned to examine the viral reports.
On Friday, head of the Denpasar Immigration Office R. Haryo Sakti said immigration officials had investigated the couple and concluded that the "information circulating on social media was inaccurate".
“During their interview with immigration officers, the couple firmly denied being former members of the IDF. They stated that they are German nationals who had previously lived in Israel and completed their primary and secondary education there,” Haryo said.
