Sri Lanka coordinated the rescue and repatriation of 40 Iranian seafarers from commercial vessels operating in international waters near its coast following reports of medical emergencies. The country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on October 25, 2026, that the operation was conducted after authorities received a request for urgent medical assistance from the Iranian Embassy in Colombo.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Thushara Rodrigo said the sailors were brought ashore through the southern port of Galle on October 24, with transportation arranged by the bIranian Embassy and local shipping agents. The seafarers received medical attention before being repatriated to Iran. Sri Lankan authorities also facilitated the necessary immigration and administrative procedures.

The operation took place amid continuing disruptions affecting Iranian commercial shipping. Several Iranian vessels have reportedly remained in international waters near Sri Lanka because of restrictions associated with the United States\' naval blockade. However, Sri Lankan authorities have not publicly identified the vessels involved in the latest evacuation or disclosed the specific medical conditions affecting the rescued seafarers.

Rodrigo emphasized that Sri Lanka\'s assistance was provided on humanitarian grounds in response to the medical emergencies. The latest operation follows an earlier rescue involving Iranian naval personnel in March 2026, when Sri Lankan authorities assisted survivors following the sinking of the Iranian warship *IRIS Dena* in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka has maintained that its humanitarian response to maritime emergencies is consistent with its international obligations.