In the sacred cities of Vrindavan and Mathura, Israeli nationals are discreetly receiving protection from the Uttar Pradesh (UP) police and intelligence agencies. Security organizations are vigilantly monitoring the movements of devotees of Lord Krishna from Israel to ensure their well-being, especially in light of recent developments in the Middle East following the unexpected terror attack by Hamas in Israel.
“Seven Israeli citizens are currently in Vrindavan on tourist visas. We maintain regular contact with them and have made the necessary arrangements to ensure their safety and security. A comprehensive report has been submitted to the state government,” revealed Martand Prakash Singh, the superintendent of police for the city.
While specific details about these Israeli tourists remain confidential, some of them shared their experiences. A 54-year-old yoga teacher acknowledged that senior state police officials had been in touch with them, instructing them to stay together and maintain privacy in their movements. They were also advised not to discuss events in their home country with unfamiliar individuals or post related information on social media. Representatives from ISKCON are also offering assistance. Due to mobile network disruptions, a 25-year-old singer from Tel Aviv expressed the challenges of connecting with family and friends in Israel.
“We are constantly seeking updates on social media about our loved ones and our country. One of my friends has been missing for the past four days,” she stated.
Although flights to Israel remain suspended, the singer, who underwent two years of military training, expressed her desire to return to Israel and rejoin her military unit. Her 57-year-old father, sharing his unhappiness with his country’s political and military leadership, said, “We came here for spiritual enrichment. But the attack on our homeland has disrupted our journey. Hundreds of our people have lost their lives… Like any other Israeli, we are prepared to make any sacrifice to defend our nation.” A 39-year-old photographer and filmmaker also expressed disappointment with the Israeli government for not preventing the attack, calling it the largest attack on Israeli territory.
He added, “One would expect a nation as strong as ours to prevent such incidents, yet 75 years after the creation of Israel, the government has failed in its fundamental duty: protecting the lives of its citizens.”
