Irael's Latest Security Situation and Advice to Sri Lankans

According to the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Israel Mr. Nimal Bandara the first attack occurred yesterday morning in central Tel Aviv. Although many buildings were damaged, there were no reported fatalities—only injuries—as most people had already moved to safer locations. Out of the 26 missiles fired, 23 were intercepted, and 3 landed. There are no reports of injuries to foreign workers, including Sri Lankans.

Around 3:00 AM today, missile warning sirens were heard across the country, and another missile attack took place. Residents again moved to safe locations. A missile crash was reported, but details are still pending.

Tomorrow, three Sri Lankans are scheduled to travel to Sri Lanka via Eilat (Israel), the TABA border crossing, and Cairo Airport. Their travel arrangements are being coordinated by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Egypt. Meanwhile, 12 more Sri Lankans visited the Embassy yesterday seeking assistance to return home. They are expected to depart in the coming days.

The journey from Tel Aviv to Eilat, through the TABA border and on to Cairo Airport, involves traversing challenging terrain. The approximately 450-kilometer route runs through the deserts of Israel and Egypt, where temperatures during the summer can reach up to 45°C. Once inside Egypt, travelers must pass through multiple security checkpoints where vehicles are thoroughly inspected. Those planning to reach Cairo International Airport are advised to begin their journey at least one day in advance.

Meanwhile, the Government of India is operating several flights from Amman Airport in Jordan to New Delhi to repatriate Indian nationals. The Indian Embassy in Israel has informed us that seats on these flights can also be arranged for a number of Sri Lankans.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka has approved the use of these flights. Accordingly, those intending to travel via this route will be registered at the Sri Lankan Embassy today and tomorrow. The Sri Lankan Embassy in Jordan and the Sri Lankan High Commission in New Delhi will assist travelers using this option.

Due to the ongoing conflict, the absence of tourists has disrupted hotel operations, affecting many Sri Lankans working in the hospitality sector. A hotel in the Dead Sea area has closed, and 15 Sri Lankan workers had to be relocated to another hotel. Anyone facing similar issues is kindly requested to report their situation to the Embassy.

We have received numerous appeals from Sri Lankans currently in Sri Lanka who wish to return to Israel. However, due to the prevailing war situation, the Government of Sri Lanka has decided to temporarily suspend travel to Israel. We request everyone to respect and adhere to this decision until further notice.

Life remains relatively normal in most parts of Israel, with bus and train services continuing. However, in the event of a missile attack, those traveling in public or private vehicles are strongly advised to exit the vehicle and take shelter in a nearby safe area. There have been incidents where burning missile debris caused vehicles to catch fire, hence this precaution.

At present, there are no reports of food shortages or disruptions to water and electricity supplies. However, we urge everyone to regularly charge their mobile phones and keep an extra power bank handy. 

If you have not heard from your family in Israel at least once a day, please make an effort to contact them. Families in Sri Lanka are understandably anxious and concerned.

Despite these difficult circumstances, the Embassy remains fully operational, and our staff is ready to support Sri Lankans wishing to return home.

Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Israel