President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stresses humanitarian values after rescuing Iranian sailors following a US strike
March 6, 2026: Sri Lanka has called for an immediate end to hostilities amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said the country rescued around 200 Iranian sailors who sought assistance after a deadly US torpedo strike targeted another Iranian vessel. The sailors were reportedly taken in after the attack left their ship damaged and forced them to seek refuge at sea.
In a post on X, Dissanayake emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to humanitarian principles and its long-standing non-aligned foreign policy. “No civilian should die in wars. Our approach is that every life is as precious as our own,” he wrote, adding that the country remains focused on saving lives while staying neutral in international conflicts.
The president also warned about the broader consequences of the escalating conflict, including the risk of a global economic crisis. He urged all parties involved to commit to peace and dialogue, stating that Sri Lanka stands ready to support efforts aimed at ending hostilities and ensuring that humanitarian values prevail.