Foreign Ministry coordinates evacuation efforts amid Middle East tensions

AMID the rising tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, the Foreign Affairs Ministry yesterday announced that coordinated efforts are underway to safeguard and evacuate Sri Lankans in affected Middle Eastern countries.

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In a statement issued, the Ministry shared the latest updates on the situation and the measures being taken to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad.

Status in Iran

As reported by the Sri Lanka Embassy in Tehran, the total number of Sri Lankans currently accounted for in Iran is 41, including nine who have already departed the country. A total of three Sri Lankans, including two students, are in the process of departing on 24 June from Mashhad Airport to New Delhi, India.

The Consul General, Dubai, has been informed by the Indian Deputy Head of Mission that the three Sri Lankan citizens were successfully evacuated yesterday morning via scheduled flights. Another two Sri Lankans, a student and an Embassy officer, are scheduled to depart via the Tiirkiye border yesterday, while three Sri Lankans are expected to depart under company-arranged travel in the coming days.

Status in Israel

As reported by Sri Lankan Ambassador Nimal Bandara, 219 Sri Lankans who travelled to Sri Lanka for holidays are scheduled to return to Israel. The Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) has extended the re-entry visa period for foreigners who were unable to return to Israel as scheduled due to the Iran-Israel conflict. These visas will now be valid till 31 July 2025.