Sri Lanka's Economic Vigilance Amid Middle East Turmoil

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned about potential economic fallout from the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Concerns include rising fuel prices and the need to evacuate Sri Lankans in the Middle East, which could strain the already struggling economy.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has sounded an alarm over potential economic repercussions following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. The killing, confirmed by Hamas, has escalated tensions in the Middle East.

Wickremesinghe, addressing a political gathering, condemned the assassination and highlighted its potential to destabilize global fuel prices, posing a significant threat to Sri Lanka's economy. He noted the economic turmoil that could follow, drawing parallels to the aftermath of Kuwait's invasion in 1991.

In response, the Sri Lankan government is taking preemptive measures. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry will liaise with international counterparts, while a committee headed by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena is formulating a contingency plan. Parallelly, another official committee will assess the economic impact on the country. Sri Lanka, still reeling from declaring bankruptcy in April 2022, is on high alert for any developments.

(With inputs from agencies.)