- Detailed report to Parliament once proceedings completed
Chief Government Whip Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa told Parliament yesterday (5) that developments unfolding in the Indian Ocean are “more serious than what has been publicly stated”, stressing the Government is responding carefully within the framework of international law while prioritising humanitarian concerns.
Responding to questions over a second Iranian vessel reportedly near Sri Lanka, Dr. Jayatissa clarified that the ship was not within Sri Lanka’s territorial waters but inside the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
“We know more facts than what the Opposition Leader has presented. There are developments in the Indian Ocean that are even more serious than what has been publicly stated,” he said.
“The Government is aware of the situation and is taking maximum steps to minimise loss of life and preserve regional peace. A detailed report will be presented to Parliament once the relevant proceedings are completed.”
Earlier in the debate, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa pressed the Government for clarification over the sinking of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena, which international media reports say was struck by a torpedo fired from a submarine.
Premadasa questioned why the Government had not issued a comprehensive statement clarifying whether the attack occurred within Sri Lanka’s territorial waters, on its continental shelf, or inside the EEZ, and what diplomatic or security measures had been taken in response.
“Sri Lanka’s territorial sea extends up to 12 nautical miles, where domestic law fully applies. Beyond that lies the EEZ up to 200 nautical miles, where Sri Lanka has sovereign rights over economic activities,” Premadasa said.
He argued that such maritime zones must be used for peaceful purposes and with due regard to the rights of coastal states.
Premadasa further maintained that when a war-related incident occurs so close to Sri Lanka, Parliament must be properly informed so that legislators can fulfil their constitutional responsibility to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and national security.
Responding, Dr. Jayatissa urged caution in discussing the matter.
“This is not a time for jokes, political point-scoring or spreading half-truths and disinformation that could inflame communities,” he said.
“As a Government, we are acting responsibly. Ministries, departments and institutions are working on this. Our role is to save lives, prevent escalation and safeguard regional peace.”