Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has refuted claims alleging that the United States exerted pressure on Sri Lanka to deny food, water, or provisions to vessels operating off the country’s coast, addressing growing scrutiny over a large maritime presence in the region.
Speaking at an event on Sunday, Herath clarified that approximately 47 vessels are currently stationed in the waters near Sri Lanka, including around 19 Iranian ships. He emphasized that none of these vessels have breached Sri Lanka’s sovereign maritime borders, confirming that all 47 ships remain beyond the 12-nautical-mile territorial limit. Herath noted that regional navigation has faced complications due to prevailing conditions in the Strait of Hormuz, adding that the Iranian vessels have been operating in the broader area for some time rather than arriving recently.
Addressing allegations of diplomatic interference, Herath categorically stated that the United States has not intervened, instructed, or exerted any form of pressure on Sri Lanka regarding the provision of supplies to these ships. Dismissing suggestions that the situation has sparked internal instability, the Foreign Minister reiterated that the Sri Lankan government remains committed to protecting its sovereignty, independence, and neutrality while strictly abiding by international maritime law.
Key Developments
- Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed that 47 foreign vessels, including roughly 19 Iranian ships, are operating entirely outside Sri Lanka’s 12-nautical-mile territorial boundary.
- Allegations claiming the United States directed or pressured Sri Lanka to withhold food and water from these vessels were categorically rejected.
- Complications in regional navigation were attributed to the ongoing situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
- The Sri Lankan government reiterated that it has not transported or provided goods to vessels subject to US sanctions.
- Private-sector entities offering maritime services were advised to recognize prevailing circumstances and act responsibly.
Herath underscored that while the state does not supply US-sanctioned vessels, Sri Lanka stands ready to carry out humanitarian interventions if conditions demand, maintaining active diplomatic relationships without compromising its neutral standing.