Declassified Israeli archival documents have revealed that Israel provided substantial military support to Sri Lanka during the country’s civil war in the 1980s, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations. Sri Lanka had severed ties with Israel in 1970 under pressure from Arab nations. Yet, in 1984, an Israeli “Interests Section” was quietly established in Colombo within the U.S. Embassy, signalling a covert resumption of contact.
According to the newly released files from the Israel State Archives, Israel’s support included arms sales, training programmes, and strategic advice. The initiative was reportedly requested by the Sri Lankan government to counter Tamil insurgents, highlighting Israel’s role in shaping military operations during the early years of the conflict.
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Arms and Equipment
Between 1984 and 1988, Israel supplied Sri Lanka with military hardware worth roughly $30 million. This included patrol boats, submachine guns, electronic fences, communications systems, and ammunition. Israeli advisers also trained the President’s personal security detail and Sri Lanka’s armed forces, sometimes under civilian covers such as “agricultural advisers.” These trainers were credited with significantly improving operational readiness in conflict zones, particularly in the Tamil-dominated north.
Specialised Training and Police Units
Israeli assistance extended to Sri Lanka’s Special Task Force (STF), a police unit notorious for its harsh tactics. Despite repeated reports by Israeli diplomats on human rights violations—including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and attacks on civilians—the support continued. Officials noted the STF’s “elite” status and understood that future political changes could endanger those associated with it.
Diplomatic Considerations
Documents indicate that Israel viewed its military aid as a strategic investment in potential diplomatic normalization. Officials were aware of public perception issues, as the assistance could be seen as backing operations against Tamil civilians. Requests for support during election campaigns were recorded, although no evidence shows Israel provided direct financial assistance.
Summary of Israeli Support
| Year | Type of Support | Details | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 | Diplomatic presence | Establishment of Interests Section in Colombo | N/A |
| 1985 | Naval assets | Six Dvora-class fast patrol boats | $1 million |
| 1986 | Small arms | Mini-Uzi submachine guns | Not specified |
| 1986 | Security training | Four-day course for President’s bodyguards (30 personnel) | Not specified |
| 1987 | Military training | Army personnel trained by disguised Israeli advisers | N/A |
| 1987 | Communications & arms | Electronic fences, machine guns, ammunition | Part of $30 million total |
| 1987–1988 | Police training | Special Task Force VIP protection unit | Not specified |
Human Rights Awareness
Israeli officials were repeatedly briefed on abuses perpetrated by Sri Lankan forces, including mass civilian casualties and targeted operations against Tamil communities. Nevertheless, they judged that ongoing military assistance was in Israel’s strategic interest, prioritising influence and operational collaboration over ethical concerns.
The archives illuminate a complex reality: Israel knowingly contributed to Sri Lanka’s military capacity during the civil war, balancing geopolitical interests with awareness of severe human rights violations, and leaving a lasting impact on the conflict’s trajectory.