IRIS Dena - Humanity at its best

Sri Lanka proudly placed itself on the world map after coming forward to assist IRIS Dena, an Iranian warship in distress following the Iran-US conflict. In addition, Sri Lanka extended a helping hand by assisting over 200 individuals aboard the second Iranian vessel despite rising tensions. While adhering to international maritime regulations, Sri Lanka acted swiftly within its legal framework. President Dissanayake emphasised on the fact that Sri Lanka will maintain a neutral stance in this matter. This kind of humanity is not new to Sri Lanka. At the onset of Cyclone Ditwah, Sri Lankans in affected areas were not left out. People from the south travelled all the way to Hill Country to clean bus stands and help survivors in the aftermath of the cyclone. This time, when health authorities described the issue with lack of cold storage facilities, the business community in Galle has come forward to donate  Rs. 2.2 million worth cold storage for victims of the Iranian vessel. It is heartwarming to see this kind of solidarity expressed to individuals who are in need of help from a faraway country. This is the kind of peace and solidarity that the world needs in a backdrop of escalating tensions. Kudos to the government for taking the right decision in this situation. 

Nihal Rodrigo 

Mt. Lavinia