Special security instructions for Sri Lankans living in Israel

Considering the escalating military tensions and unstable situation currently developing in the Middle East region, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel, Mr. Nimal Bandara, took steps yesterday (15) to issue a special series of security guidelines to Sri Lankans residing in Israel. These instructions emphasize the importance of being prepared to face a sudden missile attack or a terrorist act.

The Ambassador pointed out that no Sri Lankan lives were lost during the Iranian missile attacks on Israel last June, thanks to the public's proper adherence to the instructions provided by the country's security forces and the embassy. He specifically mentioned that a large number of casualties were avoided because residents moved to their homes or nearby safe locations immediately after emergency sirens sounded.

Therefore, in the current situation, the Ambassador urges Sri Lankans to remain constantly vigilant regarding announcements made by security forces through the media. It is extremely important for individuals using medication for any illness to always keep their medicines with them. Furthermore, Ambassador Nimal Bandara emphasized that if telephone connections are disrupted due to a power or internet system failure, their relatives in Sri Lanka should not panic unnecessarily.

Advising those working in open areas, the Ambassador stated that if an emergency warning is received during working hours, they should immediately seek shelter in the nearest safe place. He further added that if such an emergency occurs while traveling in a vehicle, they should immediately exit the vehicle and proceed to the nearest safe location.

Due to the current unstable situation, many airlines have taken steps to fly bypassing Iranian airspace. Therefore, passengers intending to travel through the Middle East region or to Israel should reconfirm their flights with the respective airlines. However, the Ambassador stated that operations at Tel Aviv Airport are proceeding as usual, and airport data confirms that airlines such as Fly Dubai and Etihad operated flights according to their scheduled timetables yesterday (15).