Deputy Foreign Minister Arun Hemachandra informed Parliament that Sri Lanka’s embassy in Tel Aviv has formally requested consular access to verify Mehboobdeen’s condition, ensure her safety, and assess the legal and procedural aspects of her detention.
He said the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation through diplomatic channels, noting that the flotilla carrying activists from multiple countries was intercepted and several participants were taken into custody.
The Deputy Minister added that the government is refraining from drawing premature conclusions regarding the incident, but stressed that Sri Lanka’s priority remains the protection of the citizen’s safety, welfare, legal rights, and dignity.
He further stated that the government is relying on verified official information rather than media reports, and will continue engagement with relevant authorities in Israel to ensure consular protection and due process.
Meanwhile, a protest was held outside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by the Free Palestine Movement, calling on authorities to take urgent action to secure Mehboobdeen’s release and ensure her safety.
Reports indicate that Mehboobdeen departed Sri Lanka in April to join the Global Sumud Flotilla, an international humanitarian mission involving activists from nearly 100 countries aiming to reach Gaza.
Organizers say more than 50 vessels set sail last week in the final stage of the mission, while the Israeli Navy began intercepting the flotilla yesterday (18), detaining several participants following earlier attempted crossings.
