Sri Lanka’s Embassy in Israel has issued safety guidelines for Sri Lankans living and working in the country as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East.
In a statement, the embassy said the advisory was issued in light of growing unrest and a series of developments affecting security and travel in the region.
It noted that the Indian government has advised its citizens and people of Indian origin in Iran to leave the country at the earliest possible opportunity.
The embassy also cited international media reports indicating that evacuation arrangements are being made for personnel at some US military bases in Doha.
In addition, certain flights transiting the region have been suspended or are operating under restrictions, the statement said.
Despite the heightened regional tensions, the embassy said Israel’s security apparatus remains on high alert.
The Israel Defense Forces are fully prepared to respond to any situation, with missile defense systems activated and ready, it added.
The embassy urged Sri Lankans in Israel not to be alarmed by unverified reports or misinformation circulating in some media and online platforms. Israeli security forces will take appropriate measures to manage any developments and ensure public safety, the statement said.
Furthermore, the embassy advised the following instructions to be followed in the event of a sudden missile attack or terrorist incident:
• During the Iranian missile attacks in June 2025, no Sri Lankans were harmed, as most individuals promptly took shelter in their residences or nearby safe rooms in response to continuous warnings and emergency sirens issued by the Israeli security forces and the Embassy, it added. Therefore, all Sri Lankans are urged to remain vigilant and strictly follow warnings and instructions issued by Israeli media and security authorities.
• Persons who require medication for ongoing illnesses are advised to keep their medicines readily accessible at all times.
• Family members in Sri Lanka are kindly requested to avoid unnecessary panic if communication is temporarily disrupted due to power outages or internet service interruptions.
• Those working in open areas should immediately seek shelter in the nearest safe location upon receiving an alert during working hours.
• If an emergency alert is received while travelling in a vehicle, exit the vehicle and proceed immediately to the nearest shelter.
• Sri Lankans planning to visit Israel in the coming days are advised to closely monitor the prevailing situation and remain vigilant.
The statement added that while the embassy will be closed today (15), for the Thai Pongal holiday and on January 16 and 17 for Israel’s weekend holidays, emergency services will remain available in the event of any unforeseen situation.
