Omanthai Crossing Point

The ICRC says that it is discussing new crossing-point arrangements in the north with the government and the LTTE.

"Finding an arrangement for movement between government and LTTE-controlled territory is essential for the safe passage of civilians, ambulances and food convoys, and for the return of bodies of fallen fighters," said Paul Castella, the ICRC's head of delegation in Sri Lanka.

All arrangements concerning crossing-point procedures, including location and opening hours, must be agreed to by both the government and the LTTE, ICRC said.

The ICRC's presence at the Omanthai crossing point has been temporarily suspended since 18 November, as the organization could not obtain all necessary guarantees for the safe passage of civilians and goods.

Ad hoc passage

Despite this on 19 November, the ICRC staff managed to facilitate the ad-hoc passage of 24 patients from the Vanni seeking treatment in Vavuniya General Hospital and the transfer of 18 bodies of fallen fighters It said.

"Until a clear arrangement is found, the ICRC will continue to approach both parties to the conflict on a case-by-case basis to facilitate the movement of ambulances and the transfer of dead bodies of security-force and LTTE fighters." added Mr. Castella.

ICRC protection and assistance activities in the Vanni have not been affected by the closure of the Omanthai crossing point, ICRC added.