Former Israeli Soldiers Allegedly Build Luxury Villa in Bali, Sparking Public Outrage and Immigration Probe

Bali, Indonesia — July 2025 A wave of controversy has erupted across Indonesian social media platforms following the discovery that two alleged former members of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) may be involved in constructing and operating a luxury villa business in Bali. The case has not only ignited a heated public response but also prompted local immigration officials to initiate a formal investigation into their presence and business activities on the island.

📹 Israeli soldiers in Bali, Viral Footage Sparks Online Outrage

The issue began when an Instagram account @gaza.editor, known for pro-Palestinian content, posted a video showing a foreign man operating a drone in a green, undeveloped area believed to be in Bali. The man was later identified by netizens as Shachar Gonen, a former soldier of the Israeli military. In another clip, a foreign woman is seen taking part in a Balinese traditional ceremony believed to be a melaspas ritual—typically performed before commencing construction. She was identified as Adi Hashamonai Gonen, also allegedly a former IDF soldier.

Social media users quickly unearthed images of the pair in Israeli military uniforms, linking their past military careers to current activities in Bali. Both individuals reportedly have social media accounts under the handles @shachargonen and @adi_hashamonai, though both accounts have since been set to private amid growing scrutiny.

🛖 Alleged Property: Gonen Villas Bali

The couple is believed to be the founders and operators of a villa project in Bali under the name Gonen Villas Bali, utilizing their family name as the brand. Various sources point to the property being actively promoted and offered to international tourists, particularly from Europe and Australia.

While the exact location of the villa remains unconfirmed, several social media users and investigative accounts claimed that the construction site is located in a tourism-heavy district on the island, possibly in Ubud or Canggu.

The incident has sparked widespread backlash, especially considering Indonesia’s strong diplomatic stance in support of Palestine and its non-recognition of Israel as a sovereign state. Indonesia does not have diplomatic relations with Israel, and Israeli passport holders are generally not allowed to enter the country without special permission.

🛂 Immigration Office Confirms Investigation Underway

Speaking to the media, a representative from the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office confirmed that their office is currently investigating the case. "We are currently collecting data and verifying the visa status and residence permits of the foreign nationals in question," the spokesperson said. "If there are any violations, appropriate legal steps will be taken."

The villa’s construction and business legality are also being examined. Authorities are looking into whether the individuals entered using tourist visas, business visas, or investor permits, and whether they are authorized to conduct business activities on Indonesian soil.

The Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, also responded to the media, stating that he had not yet received an official report regarding Israeli citizens conducting business in Bali but promised to follow up and take appropriate action if the allegations were proven true.

💬 Public Backlash: "How Did They Enter?"

Indonesians on social media have widely questioned how former Israeli military personnel were able to enter Bali, purchase or lease land (even if through nominees), and build property—considering the country's strict stance on Israeli nationals.

One viral tweet read:

“So former IDF soldiers are living peacefully, building businesses in Bali while Palestinians are being bombed? Unacceptable.”

Some have raised concerns about national security, while others highlighted the loopholes often used by foreign investors to exploit local land ownership laws—by using Indonesian "nominee" names to bypass restrictions on foreign land ownership.

Others expressed concern that tourism in Bali may become an open door for politically controversial figures or foreign nationals with problematic pasts to enter and operate businesses without sufficient oversight.

🌏 Legal and Ethical Questions

This incident sheds light on a broader and long-standing issue: the lack of regulation and transparency surrounding foreign investments and property ownership in Bali. Many foreign nationals are known to establish villa rental businesses using local proxies, or through company formations that often skirt the intended purpose of Indonesia’s foreign ownership laws.

It also touches on the ethical implications of allowing individuals with military backgrounds—especially those from active conflict zones—to establish financial ventures in neutral or peaceful territories like Bali. With Indonesia’s strong support for Palestine, this situation creates a serious diplomatic and social dilemma.

🔍 What's Next?

At the time of writing, immigration officials are still verifying the facts. It remains to be seen whether the individuals in question violated immigration, business, or property laws. However, public pressure is mounting on the government to respond firmly and transparently.

Tourism, real estate, and immigration authorities are now under increased scrutiny to ensure Bali does not become a loophole haven for individuals with controversial backgrounds. The case is being closely monitored by activists, journalists, and the international community.

The alleged construction of a luxury villa by former Israeli soldiers in Bali has shocked the Indonesian public and raised significant questions about immigration oversight, foreign land control, and ethical tourism. As investigations continue, Indonesians are calling for stricter enforcement of visa and business laws—particularly for foreign nationals from sensitive geopolitical regions.

The government is expected to release an official statement after the completion of their investigation.