Lanka slams Israeli attack

Sri Lanka has deplored the use of force by the Israeli military on boats carrying supplies for Palestinian people in international waters off the coast of Gaza this week resulting in the loss of life and injuries to aid workers.

The Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement, said Sri Lanka deeply regrets the loss of life and injuries resulting from this operation noting that indiscriminate use of force to prevent the carriage of supplies for people under occupation is condemned.

“The reports of attacks during the Israeli military operation on boats carrying supplies for Palestinian people in international waters off the coast of Gaza have caused grave distress to the Government and the people of Sri Lanka. The Government and the people of Sri Lanka extend their sympathies to the families of the victims and injured. Sri Lanka calls for expeditious action to relieve the sufferings of those who are affected by the attacks,” the External Affairs ministry said.

Sri Lanka reiterates its conviction that sustainable peace and security in the region is achievable only through peaceful dialogue.

Israeli forces attacked a flotilla of aid-carrying ships aiming to break the country's siege on Gaza. At least 19 people were killed and dozens injured when troops intercepted the convoy of ships dubbed the Freedom Flotilla early on Monday.

The flotilla was attacked in international waters, 65km off the Gaza coast. (Daily Mirror online)