Sri Lanka has kept more than 250 sailors in protective custody since the early days of the war. Iran wants them back, but Sri Lanka is unsure what to do with them.

The island’s government, rationing fuel amid shortages from the Iran war, surprised residents by imposing an unusual four-day week.

Sri Lanka did not agree to the request, officials said, and has tried to remain neutral in the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran.

The Iranian Navy sought refuge in Sri Lanka and India. While India obliged, Sri Lanka stalled over fears it would threaten its neutrality.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said it was the first such strike since World War II. The Sri Lankan authorities said they had rescued 32 sailors from the crew of 180.