One of the missiles exploded near a building housing the Kenyan, Austrian, and Lithuanian embassies. The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the attack. Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei emphasized that “in accordance with international law, the relevant parties must always take measures to protect foreign missions.”
Additionally, an Iranian missile struck Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, one of Israel’s largest hospitals. Several hospital buildings were damaged, and many patients, including children, were injured. Soroka also treats patients from Gaza and Palestine. Some patients who arrived at the start of the Gaza conflict have been residing near the hospital for nearly 20 months. One Sri Lankan woman sustained minor injuries in the attack; her condition is not serious.
Four Sri Lankans visited the Embassy seeking assistance to return home due to the ongoing conflict. One of them plans to return after a vacation, while the other three do not intend to return to Israel. Necessary documentation was provided for their travel to Cairo via the city of Eilat and the Taba border crossing into Egypt.
The Sri Lankan Embassy in Cairo has been informed and will coordinate with the relevant Egyptian authorities to facilitate their passage.
It has come to our attention that false information about the current military situation and its possible consequences is being circulated among the Sri Lankan community, including through voice recordings. We urge all Sri Lankans to avoid spreading or believing such unverified news. Official updates on the security situation and safety measures are regularly issued by Israeli security forces, PIBA, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Despite June 20th being a public holiday in Israel, the Sri Lankan Embassy remains open today. Sri Lankans who require consular services or are planning travel to Sri Lanka may visit the Embassy.
Sri Lankans in need of assistance during this time are encouraged to contact the Embassy via the official telephone numbers provided.
