Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, the grave military situation between Israel and Iran is escalating today. We pray it does not become larger. However, at a time when there is a serious risk of it turning into a wider war, I wish to remind the House that between 10,000 and 20,000 Sri Lankan citizens live and work in Israel—we cannot state an exact number; it may be more. Even before we ask this question, the Government has a responsibility for their welfare and, at a minimum, to present to this House what measures have been taken to ensure their safety and protection. The country needs clarity from the Government on this, without waiting for the Opposition to ask.

¶ 02 I also wish to note this affects our economy—our industry, tea sector, and exports—through oil prices. The Opposition Leader and the Chief Opposition Whip stood up to ask for disclosure on this serious issue. We rise not to create disruption, but to place before the country matters that affect our people.