INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The Sri Lankan Embassy in Israel has announced that it is now mandatory for Sri Lankans intending to travel from Israel to Sri Lanka via
Egypt to possess a valid Israeli visa, in light of the prevailing security situation and regional travel complications.This clarification
Gurion Airport could exit Israel via the Egyptian border, provided they obtained the necessary documentation from the Sri Lankan
Embassy.However, four Sri Lankans who attempted to travel to Sri Lanka via Cairo Airport, using the TABA border crossing in Eilat, were
informed the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Egypt, Sisira Seneviratne, who subsequently engaged in discussions with Egyptian border and security
officials.Ambassador Bandara emphasized that foreign nationals without valid Israeli visas are often subjected to extended interrogations
and, in some cases, detention when attempting to enter Egypt
Therefore, he reiterated that Sri Lankans without valid visas will not be repatriated via Egypt, even in emergency situations.Accordingly,
Sri Lankans who do not possess a valid Israeli visa or whose visas have expired are advised to remain in Israel and wait for the reopening
visited the diplomatic mission yesterday to collect the necessary documentation to facilitate their return to Sri Lanka.Many Israelis who
ships and special flights operated by Israeli National Airlines and Akiya Airlines, the statement said.Meanwhile, the regional security
situation continues to deteriorate
Iran launched a fresh wave of ballistic missile and drone attacks targeting several major Israeli cities late last night and early this
In retaliation, Israel has carried out a new series of strikes on identified targets in Iran.According to human rights organizations, the
In response, Iranian missile and drone attacks have killed 24 people and injured approximately 1,300 in Israel.Given this intensifying
conflict, Ambassador Bandara strongly urged all Sri Lankans residing in Israel to remain highly vigilant and strictly adhere to security
instructions issued by the Israeli government.The Sri Lankan Embassy remains open despite the public holiday and continues to provide
assistance to Sri Lankans seeking consular support during this emergency.
