Sri Lankan workers in Israel seek to return home due to conflict

Colombo, June 23 (Daily Mirror) - An increasing number of Sri Lankan expatriates in Israel are choosing to return home as some of them have lost their livelihood due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, according to Sri Lanka's Ambassador in Tel Aviv Nimal Bandara.

"The livelihoods of several Sri Lankans have been disrupted as a result of the ongoing conflict," Bandara said in a statement posted on Facebook.

He reported that three Sri Lankans are scheduled to travel to Sri Lanka today via Eilat (Israel), the Taba border crossing, and Cairo Airport. Their travel is being facilitated by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Egypt. Meanwhile, 12 more Sri Lankans visited the embassy yesterday seeking assistance to return home. They are expected to depart in the coming days.

"The journey from Tel Aviv to Eilat, then through the Taba border and onwards to Cairo Airport, is both long and challenging," Bandara explained. "The roughly 450-kilometre route crosses the deserts of Israel and Egypt, where summer temperatures can soar up to 45°C. Once in Egypt, travellers face multiple security checkpoints with thorough vehicle inspections. Those intending to reach Cairo International Airport are advised to begin their journey at least a day in advance."

In a coordinated regional effort, the Government of India has begun operating repatriation flights from Amman Airport in Jordan to New Delhi. The Indian Embassy in Israel has offered to accommodate a number of Sri Lankans on these flights. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka has approved this arrangement, and Sri Lankans wishing to travel via this route can register at the Sri Lankan Embassy in Israel today and tomorrow. The Sri Lankan Embassy in Jordan and the High Commission in New Delhi will assist travellers along this route.

As the Israel–Iran conflict enters its 11th day, tensions continue to rise. In the past 24 hours, Iran launched two missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and other urban areas in Israel. The first strike, which occurred early yesterday in central Tel Aviv, caused damage to several buildings. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, as many residents had already relocated to safer areas. Of the 26 missiles launched, 23 were intercepted, and 3 landed. There are currently no reports of injuries to foreign workers, including Sri Lankans.

Around 3:00 AM yesterday, missile warning sirens were heard across the country, followed by another missile attack. Although a missile crash was confirmed, further details remain pending.

The absence of tourists due to the conflict has severely affected the hospitality sector, where many Sri Lankans are employed. A hotel in the Dead Sea area recently closed, resulting in the relocation of 15 Sri Lankan workers to another facility. Bandara urged anyone facing similar difficulties to report their situation to the embassy.

Meanwhile, the Government of Sri Lanka has temporarily suspended all travel to Israel due to the volatile situation. “We have received numerous requests from Sri Lankans currently in Sri Lanka who wish to return to Israel for work. However, in light of the ongoing conflict, we urge everyone to respect and adhere to the government’s decision until further notice,” Bandara added.