Sri Lanka will take immediate steps to repatriate its nationals if the conflict between Iran and Israel intensifies, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath informed Parliament on Thursday.
Responding to a question raised by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Rohana Bandara, Herath stated, “If the war escalates, we will send flights to the neighbouring countries of Israel and bring back the Sri Lankans.” He added that contingency measures had already been discussed at government level and Sri Lanka is prepared to act swiftly if the situation worsens.
According to Herath, approximately 20,000 Sri Lankans are currently residing in Israel, while another 35 are in Iran. He reported that four Sri Lankans in Israel have sustained injuries in the conflict, with one individual in critical condition and receiving hospital treatment.
The minister said the Sri Lankan Embassy in Israel is operating 24/7 to provide support to nationals and is coordinating closely with Israeli authorities to ensure their safety.
He also revealed that a few Sri Lankans who had travelled to Israel for business had requested to return, and the government had facilitated their repatriation.
“As of now, no formal requests have been made by Sri Lankans in Israel to return,” Herath noted, explaining that most Sri Lankans are following the safety guidelines issued by Israeli authorities and armed forces.
