March 01, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s envoy in Tel Aviv has confirmed that no Sri Lankan nationals have been reported injured following the latest wave of hostilities between Israel and Iran.
Speaking to local media, Nimal Bandara, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Israel, said the diplomatic mission has been in close contact with community leaders and individuals across the country and has so far received no information indicating harm to Sri Lankans.
The reassurance comes after Iran launched missile attacks targeting Israel in retaliation for a joint operation by the United States and Israel. In response to the heightened threat, Israeli authorities imposed sweeping emergency measures. Public gatherings were prohibited, schools and many workplaces were temporarily closed, and certain hospital patients were transferred to underground facilities as a precaution.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, declared a nationwide state of emergency, cautioning citizens about the possibility of further missile and drone strikes. The Israeli military has instructed residents to adhere strictly to safety advisories and avoid unnecessary travel to ensure that emergency services can operate without obstruction.
Ambassador Bandara noted that the situation remains tense but expressed hope that stability could be restored within the next couple of days if hostilities subside. He added that the Sri Lankan Embassy continues to disseminate safety guidance and real-time updates to nationals through official communication channels.
With Ben Gurion Airport currently closed, Sri Lankans planning to depart Israel — as well as those intending to travel there — have been advised to defer their journeys until further notice. The Embassy said it stands ready to provide assistance and urged Sri Lankans to remain vigilant, follow local authority directives and maintain regular contact with the mission during this uncertain period.