Sri Lanka Rejects US Warplane Landing Requests, Reaffirms Neutrality: Dissanayake

Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Friday informed Parliament that Sri Lanka had refused requests from the United States to allow two of its warplanes to land at Mattala International Airport earlier this month, underlining the island nation’s commitment to maintaining neutrality amid rising regional tensions.

According to the President, the US sought permission on March 4 and 8 for two aircraft arriving from Djibouti. The planes were reportedly equipped with anti-ship missiles. However, Colombo declined both requests, with Dissanayake asserting that Sri Lanka would not yield to external pressure. He noted that the ongoing Middle East conflict presents challenges, but reiterated that the country remains committed to a non-aligned foreign policy.

The remarks came a day after Dissanayake met Sergio Gor, during which both sides discussed safeguarding key sea lanes, strengthening port security, and enhancing trade and strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

In a significant and sensitive development, the report also stated that the US allegedly torpedoed the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena off the southern coast near Galle, resulting in casualties among its crew. The vessel had reportedly been returning from India following participation in a naval exercise. Such claims, if confirmed, could mark a serious escalation in regional tensions and warrant careful verification.

Subsequently, another Iranian vessel, IRIS Bushehr, sought entry into Colombo port. Sri Lankan authorities redirected it to Trincomalee Port, where a majority of its crew are currently being accommodated at a naval facility.

The developments highlight Sri Lanka’s delicate balancing act as it seeks to protect its strategic interests while avoiding entanglement in global conflicts.