Weeks after an Iranian ship fleeing the US navy sought refuge in Sri Lanka, authorities are still grappling with how to handle the uninvited guests.
The IRIS Bushehr, a logistics ship, first sought entry on March 4 after the sinking of an Iranian frigate – the IRIS Dena – nearby by US forces. The two Iranian ships were returning home from a naval exercise with India.
Sri Lankan authorities initially rejected Bushehr’s request. The crew then issued a distress call, citing mechanical failure, although Sri Lankan naval officers found no evidence to support the claim, according to security officials who briefed Euractiv.
Despite the refusal, the ship continued in Sri Lankan waters with more than 200 Iranian crew, including armed Iranian personnel – prompting immediate concerns among local officials over sovereignty and security.
After docking near the port of Colombo, it is said that many crew members sought asylumaccording to people familiar with the situation.
Tensions between Colombo and Tehran have escalated since then, security officials say. Iran’s military attaché in Sri Lanka took control of the ship, limiting access to local authorities. The continued presence of armed personnel on board is seen by some officials in Sri Lanka as a violation of sovereignty.
Authorities are also wary of possible pressure from Washington on harboring Iranian personnel who may possess valuable intelligence, the officials added.
With Bushehr now located in Trincomalee port, Sri Lanka faces increasing pressure to clarify its position – particularly regarding foreign military presence on its soil and its wider diplomatic outreach amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Sri Lankan government officials could not immediately be reached for comment.
(cz)
