Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa told Parliament today (05) that information has been received indicating that another Iranian vessel is near the Port of Colombo within Sri Lanka’s maritime boundary, and urged the government to make a clear statement on the matter.
Speaking in Parliament, Premadasa also called on the government to issue a special announcement regarding the attack carried out yesterday on an Iranian naval vessel using a torpedo reportedly launched from a U.S. submarine.
The Opposition Leader praised the personnel of the Sri Lanka Navy for rescuing those who were on board the Iranian vessel. However, he said the government has not yet made a clear diplomatic statement outlining the action it intends to take following the incident.
Premadasa noted that the situation raises serious concerns regarding Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He further said that although the government was aware that a vessel had been destroyed near the country yesterday (04), the fact that Parliament had not been informed prevents Members of Parliament from properly carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
He also stated that medical professionals at the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital have requested 40-foot container units to temporarily store the bodies of Iranian nationals brought there, expressing hope that the government would respond promptly to the request.
Premadasa further questioned how the government could be unaware of activities occurring within Sri Lanka’s maritime boundaries, warning that such a situation could pose a serious threat to national security.
