Iranian missile strikes near Tel Aviv, urges citizens to stay alert: Sri Lankan Ambassador confirms

Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel Nimal Bandara confirmed that Iran has launched several ballistic missile attacks targeting areas near Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, amid the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.

Providing an update on the situation, Ambassador Bandara said missiles fired at Herzliya, a northern suburb of Tel Aviv where the Sri Lankan embassy is located, were intercepted by the Israeli Air Force and the Iron Dome defense system.

“The walls shook. Windows rattled. Fires broke out in buildings and vehicles across several areas. More than 50 people have been injured,” he said, adding that no Sri Lankans have been reported among the injured.

The Israeli Defense Forces have declared a state of emergency, and Tel Aviv’s international airport along with national airspace remains closed.

Ambassador Bandara also noted that three Sri Lankans en route to Israel are stranded at Dubai Airport, while five others are currently at Abu Dhabi Airport. Both the Sri Lankan Consulate in Dubai and the Embassy in Abu Dhabi are assisting them, with temporary visas and accommodations arranged.

Sri Lankans employees in Israel currently on holiday in Sri Lanka are being asked to send a copy of their passport and Israeli visa to the embassy to facilitate re-entry visa extensions.

The embassy is closely monitoring developments and has urged Sri Lankans in Israel or those with travel plans to remain in contact and seek assistance if necessary.