National Organiser of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Namal Rajapaksa, has urged the government to promptly clarify its position regarding an Iranian vessel reportedly within Sri Lanka’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), seeking permission for an urgent port call.  

On X (formerly Twitter), Rajapaksa stated that the vessel is currently just outside Sri Lanka’s territorial waters and is awaiting government clearance to enter a port.

He emphasized the need for the government to immediately disclose its stance on the matter.  

Rajapaksa also suggested that if authorities are unable to decide, they should consider a precedent set by former Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.

During that conflict, Bandaranaike maintained a neutral stance by allowing a Pakistani aircraft to refuel at Bandaranaike International Airport after India closed its airspace to Pakistani flights, on humanitarian grounds driven by necessity and friendship.  

The call for transparency underscores the sensitive nature of the current situation and the importance of clear government communication.