Yeah it is spices. It is either Saffron or Sumac ( I am 70% sure it is Sumac). Food. Saffron is like a taste booster I love it when it is put in rice. While Sumac is used for Salads and Meat. Gives you lemony taste.
They have a 12km coastline full of diving and snorkeling spots. It was always safe to travel there. They say they are the safe haven of the region.