By: Isuru Parakrama
October 01, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an urgent advisory, instructing Sri Lankan citizens to refrain from travelling to Lebanon and Syria due to the escalating conflict in the region.
The directive comes in response to growing volatility, with heightened security risks across both countries.
Sri Lankan nationals currently residing in Lebanon and Syria are being strongly advised to exercise extreme caution, limiting their movements outside and staying in close contact with the Sri Lankan diplomatic missions.
The Foreign Ministry emphasised that individuals should maintain regular communication with the Sri Lankan Embassy in Beirut or the Honorary Consul in Damascus to ensure their safety.
To facilitate emergency assistance, the ministry provided key contact points. In Lebanon, Sri Lankans can reach out to Mr. Sanath Balasuriya and Ms. Priyangi Dissanayake via emergency hotlines, while Dr. Al Droubi, the Honorary Consul in Syria, remains available for immediate assistance.
Email ID:
[email protected]
Hotlines:
0094 771102510 – Mr. Sanath Balasuriya
0094 718381581 – Ms. Priyangi Dissanayake
00961 81485809 – Mr. Fahd Hawwa
Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Damascus, Dr. Al Droubi:
Email ID: [email protected]
Phone: 00963 944499666, 00963 933858803
This travel advisory coincides with an ongoing conflict that has intensified over the past year, following a series of violent clashes between Israel and Hamas militants. What began in Gaza has expanded to other parts of the region, with Israel recently launching significant airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon—the largest such strikes in nearly two decades.
The conflict has raised concerns about broader regional instability, affecting nations such as Syria and Lebanon.
Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
