The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has advised individuals planning to travel to Israel to temporarily suspend their travel plans due to the ongoing conflict in the region.
This advisory comes in light of the intensifying hostilities between Israel and Lebanon, as well as rising tensions in the surrounding areas.
In a statement made to the media today (02), Gamini Senarath Yapa, Additional General Manager for International Affairs at SLBFE, urged Sri Lankans to remain vigilant of the evolving situation and to take necessary precautions. He further emphasized the importance of individuals coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if they intend to travel to Israel, Lebanon, or Syria.
“If any Sri Lankan in Israel needs assistance in returning to Sri Lanka, they are encouraged to contact the Embassy,” Yapa added.
He revealed that there are currently approximately 12,000 Sri Lankans working in Israel, with 6,700 having migrated this year under agreements between the two countries. Most are employed in the construction and agricultural sectors, while around 5,000 Sri Lankans are working in caregiving services. Despite the conflict, there have been no reports of any Sri Lankans being affected, and the Embassy is closely monitoring the situation.
In Lebanon, where around 7,600 Sri Lankans are employed, Yapa mentioned that the Embassy remains vigilant. “We have received reports of around 28 individuals seeking protection, and they are currently being sheltered in two locations,” he said, ensuring that any Sri Lankan in need of assistance could reach out to the Embassy, with updates provided on their official Facebook page.
As tensions remain high in the region, SLBFE advises all Sri Lankans in conflict zones to adhere to security measures and maintain regular contact with the Embassy. Those seeking repatriation should coordinate directly with embassy officials to facilitate their safe return. (NewsWire)
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