Sri Lanka denies US pressure in decision to withhold supplies from Iranian vessels

The Sri Lankan government has confirmed it will not provide supplies to Iranian vessels reported to be in international waters off its southern coastline. This decision follows reports that approximately 20 Iranian ships may be facing shortages of food, water, medicine, and fuel.

Sri Lankan authorities have rejected allegations that the decision was a result of pressure from the United States. Officials asserted that the nation's foreign policy remains sovereign and is guided by national interests and international maritime and trade regulations rather than external influence.

The government also issued a clarification regarding United States secondary sanctions. These sanctions can affect non-US entities, such as Sri Lankan shipping and logistics companies, if they provide services to vessels designated under US sanction regimes targeting Iran. Consequently, local businesses and port authorities, including those at the Colombo Port, are being urged to conduct thorough due diligence to ensure compliance with international trade laws.