From emergency hotlines and visa extensions to fuel safeguards and airport readiness, Sri Lanka activates a coordinated national response as the Israel–Iran crisis threatens regional stability and economic ripple effects.
As tensions intensify between Israel and Iran, Sri Lanka has rolled out a comprehensive response strategy covering diplomacy, labour protection, aviation management, tourism stability and domestic economic safeguards. Though the conflict is geographically distant, Sri Lanka’s deep labour migration links, trade exposure, aviation routes and remittance dependence on the Middle East mean any escalation carries direct national consequences.
Government Urges Calm and De-Escalation
The Sri Lankan Government has expressed serious concern over the rapid escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, warning that the crisis poses a significant threat to regional stability and global peace. In a formal statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, authorities called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and immediately pursue diplomatic de-escalation.
Officials stressed that further confrontation could widen the conflict and produce severe humanitarian and economic consequences. Sri Lanka reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality while advocating constructive engagement to preserve international stability.
Over One Million Sri Lankans Residing Across the Middle East
According to official figures as of February 28, 2026, approximately 1,007,855 Sri Lankans live and work across 14 Middle Eastern countries. The largest expatriate communities are in the United Arab Emirates with 350,000, Saudi Arabia with 246,139, Kuwait with 175,000 and Qatar with 140,000.
Significant numbers also reside in Oman, Jordan and Bahrain, while smaller contingents are recorded in Israel, Lebanon, Iran, Syria, Yemen and Palestine. These workers are primarily engaged in domestic service, construction, healthcare and hospitality sectors, generating remittances that remain a critical pillar of Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange earnings and economic recovery.
Protection and Security Measures for Sri Lankans Overseas
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that it is closely monitoring the evolving security environment, emphasizing that the safety and welfare of Sri Lankan nationals abroad remain the highest priority. All diplomatic missions in the region have activated 24 hour emergency hotlines, while a dedicated Emergency Operations Centre has been established at the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment.
Sri Lankans in affected areas have been advised to follow official announcements, avoid non essential travel, stay away from public gatherings, maintain regular contact with embassies and keep identification documents accessible. Authorities report that no major incidents involving Sri Lankans have been recorded thus far.
Targeted Support Initiatives for Foreign Tourists
Recognising the risk of airspace closures and travel disruptions, the Government has introduced special protective measures for tourists currently in Sri Lanka. At a high level meeting chaired by Deputy Tourism Minister Ruwan Ranasinghe and President’s Secretary Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, officials approved a free 14 day visa extension for visitors facing flight delays.
Further extensions will be granted if required. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has established a dedicated assistance unit accessible via hotline 1912. Authorities are coordinating with airlines and embassies to explore alternative transit routes and ensure smooth departures and arrivals.
Air Travel Disruptions and Airport Contingency Planning
The aviation sector has experienced immediate effects. SriLankan Airlines cancelled flights to several Middle Eastern destinations, while the Civil Aviation Authority suspended operations to affected zones. At Bandaranaike International Airport, 54 flights were cancelled, disrupting arrivals and departures.
Passengers have been urged to confirm travel details directly with airlines before arriving at airports. Flights to Europe, Central Asia and the Far East continue to operate normally. Officials confirmed that Bandaranaike International Airport and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport are prepared to accommodate emergency landings if necessary.
Fuel Supply Assurance, Public Panic and Regulatory Action
The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has assured the public that fuel stocks and shipments in transit are sufficient for more than one month. Despite this reassurance, panic buying triggered temporary queues in certain areas.
Energy authorities warned that legal action will be taken against hoarding and illegal fuel distribution. Fuel supplies continue uninterrupted, including on public holidays, and officials stressed that adequate reserves remain available to maintain domestic economic stability.
Air Force Responds to Speculation
The Sri Lanka Air Force dismissed rumours that foreign military aircraft had been granted operational clearance in Sri Lankan airspace. Officials clarified that recent increased activity relates to scheduled rehearsals rather than involvement in the Israel–Iran conflict.
Continued Close Surveillance of Developments
While Sri Lanka is not directly involved in the escalating Middle East crisis, authorities remain vigilant. The Government’s coordinated response reflects an effort to maintain diplomatic neutrality, protect citizens abroad, support the tourism industry, safeguard aviation operations and ensure economic resilience during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.
