Sri Lanka Delivers Big Blow To Donald Trump, Refuses Landing For US Fighter Jets

Colombo: Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake informed Parliament that the government had refused permission for two US fighter jets to land at Mattala International Airport, located in the country's southeast, in early March. Dissanayake stated that two combat aircraft from a U.S. base in Djibouti had requested permission to visit Sri Lanka on March 4 and March 8, but both requests were rejected.

What did the Sri Lankan President Say?

He stated, "We wish to maintain our neutrality despite various pressures. We will not yield. The conflict in West Asia is creating challenges, but we will make every possible effort to remain neutral." The President added, "They sought to bring two combat aircraft—equipped with eight anti-ship missiles—from their base in Djibouti to Mattala International Airport, and we refused."

Dissanayake's statement came a day after his meeting with Sergio Gor, the U.S. Special Envoy for South and Central Asia. According to the statement, the two leaders discussed the security of critical maritime routes, enhancing port security, strengthening mutually beneficial trade ties, and efforts to advance a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

What was the Situation Following US Attack on Iranian Warship?

On March 4, the US targeted the Iranian vessel 'IRIS Dena' near the southern coastal city of Galle; the attack resulted in the deaths of 84 sailors, while 32 were rescued. The vessel was returning home after participating in a naval fleet review held in Visakhapatnam, India.

Did Sri Lanka Shelter Iranian Sailors?

Two days later, another Iranian vessel, 'IRIS Bushehr', carrying 219 sailors, sought permission to enter Colombo Port. Sri Lanka instructed the vessel to proceed to the eastern port of Trincomalee after it had anchored off the coast of Colombo. The ship's 204 sailors are currently being accommodated at a naval establishment near Colombo.