Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says Sri Lanka must rise above political divisions and stand firmly in support of the rights of the Palestinian people.
Speaking at an event in Colombo to mark the 75th anniversary of Al Nakba Day on May 15, Premadasa said the people of Palestine continue to face the devastating impact of state terrorism, losing not only their homeland but also their basic human rights.
Premadasa said despite numerous international interventions, the global response has often been limited to words rather than action. He asserted that Sri Lanka should stand for the political, social, economic, cultural, religious, and fundamental rights of the Palestinian people without hesitation or division.
Highlighting the decades-long struggles faced by Palestinians, he stressed that the right to self-determination and the freedom to live within secure borders cannot be denied to any nation.
He further noted that sustainable peace in the Middle East can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue and consensus. The Opposition Leader emphasized the global responsibility to ensure Palestinians are not sidelined, harassed, or subjected to further suffering, and said collective efforts must be made to stop the bombing and destruction of Palestinian lives.
Premadasa called on Sri Lanka, as a sovereign state, to take a proactive role in advocating for Palestinian rights at international forums, including the United Nations. He proposed that the Sri Lankan Parliament present a united resolution in support of Palestine, making Sri Lanka’s voice heard at the global level.
He also condemned policies that block food and medicine to civilians and destroy schools, hospitals, and religious sites in Palestine. Premadasa said Sri Lanka is ready to support a peaceful coexistence between Palestinians and Israelis and would offer leadership and cooperation in that direction—without political differences.