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Israeli Ex-Soldiers Linked to Bali Villa Ownership

Bali is once again in the spotlight after reports surfaced that two Israeli ex-soldiers may be linked to the construction and ownership of villas on the island. The case has quickly gone viral amid rising global attention to the Middle East conflict, prompting Indonesia’s Immigration Office to step in.

Who Are the Israeli Ex-Soldiers Linked to Bali Villa Ownership?

According to multiple reports from Detik.com, two foreign nationals said to be former members of the Israeli military have been identified in connection with properties in the Ubud area of Gianyar, Bali. One of them has been confirmed as a 30-year-old man with initials BK, who entered Indonesia on a visitor visa in April 2020. Authorities state that he later applied for a limited stay permit (KITAS) in 2023.

BK is believed to be associated with a villa development in Ubud. Photos and promotional materials from the site had previously circulated on social media, sparking public speculation over foreign ownership and national security concerns.

Immigration Response to Israeli Ex-Soldiers’ Bali Villa Ownership

Indonesia does not have diplomatic relations with Israel and is known for its firm political stance on the Palestinian issue. In response, the Directorate General of Immigration confirmed that they are working with relevant security and intelligence agencies. Their goal is to verify the backgrounds and activities of the two individuals in question.

“We’re currently investigating both the immigration status and business legality of these foreign nationals,” said Immigration Director General Silmy Karim, as quoted in Detik‘s July 3 report.

Public Reaction and Legal Boundaries

The case has sparked debate online. Many Indonesians are questioning how former military personnel from a politically sensitive country were able to invest in local property. Others are also concerned about how they obtained stay permits. Indonesian law prohibits foreign nationals from directly owning land. However, many foreigners still invest in property through nominee structures. Others choose long-term rental agreements as an alternative.

So far, no official violations have been confirmed. Authorities have not stated whether either of the individuals broke any Indonesian laws, but the case continues to develop.

Sources: detik.com

Featured Image by Suparin (shutterstock)

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