Sri Lanka Denies US Pressure Over Iranian Vessel Supplies

The Government of Sri Lanka has rejected allegations that it acted under pressure from the United States regarding its handling of Iranian vessels. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath stated that the government maintains a neutral foreign policy and adheres to international maritime law, asserting that the country will not bow to external pressure to safeguard its sovereignty.

Approximately 19 Iranian ships are among 47 vessels currently stationed outside Sri Lanka's 12-nautical-mile territorial limit, a situation driven largely by navigation challenges in the Strait of Hormuz. While the government denies providing supplies to sanctioned vessels, Herath noted that private entities providing such services are responsible for their own due diligence.

Sri Lankan authorities emphasized that their decisions are guided by national interests and legal frameworks rather than external influence. The government continues to reject unilateral sanctions not endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, attempting to balance sovereign trade interests with the need for support from Western financial partners during its economic recovery.