Sri Lanka condemns all attacks against civilians

The Sri Lankan government says it condemns all attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment said this in a statement issued on the war situation in the Middle East.

It also expressed its concern over the rapidly escalating conflict situation in the Middle East and West Asia, which poses a direct threat to the civilian population.

Sri Lanka emphasizes that protecting civilians in all circumstances is a fundamental obligation under international humanitarian law.

The statement states that it remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the sanctity of human life and global peace.

In view of the serious humanitarian crisis, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that it is closely monitoring developments in the situation that directly affects the global economy and international trade and its consequences that all countries have had to experience.

Sri Lanka reiterates the need to respect the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, which prohibit the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State.

As a State firmly committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States, Sri Lanka calls on all parties to the conflict to respect these age-old principles.

Sri Lanka also stresses the need to exercise maximum restraint in such circumstances and to return to negotiations to prevent further escalation of this dangerous situation.

Sri Lanka further calls on all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue and take decisive action to de-escalate the situation, given the serious threat to stability, peace and security in the region and beyond.