Sri Lanka is handling the recent vessel incident involving Iranian personnel strictly in accordance with international law and does not intend to support any side, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said on Saturday.
Responding to questions at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi about a reported U.S. operation against an Iranian vessel near Sri Lanka’s waters and whether the Iranian personnel would be repatriated to Iran, Herath did not give a direct confirmation but stated that the government was acting strictly under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
He said the authorities are taking all necessary steps based on international law and humanitarian considerations.
“Sri Lanka does not intend to support any side in this incident and will continue to handle the matter within the framework of international legal obligations,” he said.
Speaking during a session titled “Heart of the Seas: The Future of the Indian Ocean,” the minister highlighted the growing geopolitical importance of the Indian Ocean and called for stronger regional cooperation to ensure stability and security in the region.
Herath noted that maritime security and economic cooperation remain key priorities for countries bordering the ocean. He also pointed to the role of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) in strengthening collaboration among member states.
Welcoming India’s leadership in the organization, Herath expressed confidence that the country’s presidency of IORA would help advance regional initiatives.
“India is doing a great job. The Indian presidency of IORA can play a good role because India has many resources, human resources and material resources as a neighbouring large country. We hope under India’s presidency we can play a big role and we wish all the best for India,” he said.
