Sri Lankans In Iran And Israel Continue To Return Home Safely

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that four Sri Lankans in Iran have left Tehran and are returning to Sri Lanka on an Indian flight bound for New Delhi. Iran has permitted Indian aircraft to enter its airspace to facilitate the return of Indian nationals. Currently, 41 Sri Lankans remain in Iran. No other Sri Lankans have requested to return so far.

Meanwhile, four more Sri Lankans in Israel departed for Sri Lanka from Cairo, Egypt, early this morning. Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel Nimal Bandara said they traveled by land to Egypt and took off around 2 a.m. local time. Preparations are underway for three additional Sri Lankans who have requested to return.

So far, 119 people have arrived in Sri Lanka from Israel for holiday purposes. Additionally, ten Sri Lankans who were stranded at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports have also reached Sri Lanka. The ambassador confirmed assistance will be provided to extend their re-entry visas.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to monitor all Sri Lankans in Israel and Iran.