By Sri Lanka and Israel have a long history of diplomatic and economic relations, dating back to 1958. Sri Lanka was one of the first Asian countries to recognize Israel and establish an embassy in Tel Aviv. Over the years, thousands of Sri Lankans have migrated to Israel, mainly as caregivers and agricultural workers. According to the Sri Lankan envoy in Tel Aviv, there are about 15,000 Sri Lankans living and working in Israel as of October 2023.
Most of them are satisfied with their jobs and living conditions some Sri Lankans who were trapped in Gaza during the conflict have managed to escape to Egypt with the help of the Sri Lankan embassy in Cairo and the representative in Ramallah. One Sri Lankan national has decided to remain in Gaza, while the others are waiting to return to Sri Lanka. Many Sri Lankans who live in Tel Aviv have decided to stay back.
Sujith Bandara Yatwara and Anula Ratnayake of Sri Lankan origin have been reported dead as a result of the conflict.
