The Sri Lankan government has announced it has no immediate plans to provide support to 19 Iranian oil tankers currently anchored in international waters near the island nation. These vessels, which have reportedly been stranded for several months following a U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, are facing acute shortages of food, water, and fuel.
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Thushara Rodrigo stated that Sri Lanka must prioritize its national interests before considering any form of assistance. He noted that shipping companies are generally aware of the potential for secondary sanctions from the United States. While no direct warnings regarding repercussions have been issued by the U.S. government to Colombo, the ministry remains cautious given Sri Lanka's delicate economic position. The country is currently recovering from a severe economic crisis, with both the U.S. and Iran serving as significant trading partners. Notably, the U.S. provided critical support during Sri Lanka’s recent International Monetary Fund bailout and agricultural stabilization efforts.
The stranded tankers are situated approximately 24 nautical miles off the coast. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed to the local Sunday Times that the vessels were carrying oil to China when the blockade left them unable to return to Iran. The Iranian Embassy in Colombo has stated that it has no details regarding the situation of these specific ships.
International affairs analyst Dayan Jayatilleka remarked that while Sri Lanka faces a complex diplomatic challenge, it must adhere to international humanitarian laws. He emphasized that these vessels are commercial cargo ships rather than warships. The current situation follows a period of heightened regional tensions, including an incident earlier this year involving the sinking of an Iranian naval vessel. While Sri Lanka previously provided medical assistance and repatriation for sailors involved in that event, the government now maintains a more deliberate stance toward the stranded tankers.
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