Sri Lanka says no immediate plan to help Iranian ships near its waters with depleting food, fuel
Sri Lanka has stated it has no immediate plans to assist 19 stranded Iranian oil tankers currently anchored in international waters near its coast. The government cites national interest and potential U.S. secondary sanctions as primary reasons for its hesitation to provide food, fuel, and water.
Why it matters
The situation highlights the delicate geopolitical balancing act Sri Lanka faces as it navigates economic recovery while maintaining ties with both the U.S. and Iran.
Sri Lanka's government says that it has no immediate plans to help 19 Iranian ships that have been anchored in the international waters near the island nation facing food, water and fuel shortages.
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Thushara Rodrigo said Sri Lanka will put its national interest first before considering any help, and the companies that supply ships are aware of possible secondary sanctions from the United States.
He said, however, that there hasn't been any communication from the U.S. warning of repercussions should Sri Lanka decide to help.
Rodrigo said that the ships are stationed 24 nautical miles from Sri Lanka's coast and have reported shortages of food, water and fuel.
The Iranian Embassy in Sri Lanka said it has no details on the matter.
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