Veteran journalist and defence analyst Iqbal Athas passed away this morning at the age of 81 following a brief illness.
Widely respected internationally for his reporting on security and defence affairs, Athas gained prominence for his controversial and influential article on the wartime security situation published in the Sunday Times. His work was noted for its depth, accuracy and independence.
Athas later served as Consulting Editor of the Sunday Times, continuing to play a key role in shaping defence journalism in Sri Lanka.
The funeral will be held this afternoon at the Muslim Grand Mosque Cemetery in Dehiwala.
His remains will lie in state at No. 11C/1, Siriwardena Road, Hill Street, Dehiwala from 9.00 a.m. today.
