Sri Lanka to maintain neutral stance amid Mideast conflict: President

Friday, 6 March 2026 00:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake

To rescue crew and escort second Iranian vessel to Trinco

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake yesterday said Sri Lanka will adhere to a neutral foreign policy position in response to the ongoing regional conflict.

Addressing developments involving the Iranian vessel IRIS Bushehr located near Sri Lanka’s territorial waters, the President said arrangements had been made to disembark the ship’s crew at the Port of Colombo.

He noted that the Sri Lanka Navy would escort the vessel to the Trincomalee Harbour after the crew is brought ashore, adding that steps were under way to safely transport the 208 personnel on board to Colombo.

President Dissanayake also rejected claims circulating on social media that 300 children were aboard the vessel, describing the reports as inaccurate.

He called on all stakeholders to act responsibly and avoid exploiting the situation for political advantage, emphasising the importance of measured conduct during a sensitive period.