Israeli Envoy Comments on Repatriation of Iranian Naval Personnel in Sri Lanka

13-Apr-2026

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Israel’s Ambassador Ruvin Javier Azar has stated that the decision on whether Iranian naval personnel currently in Sri Lanka should be sent back to their home country rests solely with the Sri Lankan Government. However, he said Israel would be satisfied with Sri Lanka’s decision if it is ensured that they will not take part in wars against the United States or Israel after returning home.

He made these remarks during a special interview with Virakesari, responding to a question on Israel’s position regarding Sri Lanka receiving requests to repatriate Iranian naval personnel currently under the custody of the Sri Lanka Navy.

This includes 32 individuals rescued from the sunken IRIS Dena and 208 individuals rescued from the IRIS Bushehr vessel, which sought emergency shelter.

The Ambassador reiterated that Sri Lanka has the right to decide on their return, but stressed that assurances must be in place to prevent the personnel or their vessels from being involved in hostile operations against Israel or the United States.