Sri Lanka Implements Four-Day Work Week Amid West Asia Conflict

In response to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, Sri Lanka has announced a four-day work week to conserve fuel resources. This decision comes as energy supply disruptions escalate due to military actions involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran. The new work schedule will apply to state institutions, schools, and universities, while essential services remain unaffected. As global oil prices surge, the situation continues to evolve, with significant implications for the region's stability and energy supply. Read on for more updates on this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 13:38 IST

Sri Lanka's New Work Schedule

On Monday, Sri Lanka declared a reduced work week to manage fuel resources effectively due to the ongoing energy supply disruptions linked to the conflict in West Asia, as reported by a news agency.

Starting Wednesday, state institutions will operate just four days a week. This policy will also apply to educational institutions, remaining in effect indefinitely. However, essential services and ports will be exempt from these restrictions.

Background of the Conflict

The conflict erupted on February 28 when the United States and Israel initiated military actions against the Iranian government. In response, Iran has targeted Israel and U.S. military installations in the area, as well as major cities in Gulf nations and various vessels.

Latest Updates on the West Asia Situation:

According to an official, the Sri Lankan government has encouraged the private sector to observe every Wednesday as a holiday. Public ceremonies have been halted, and government employees are advised to work remotely when feasible to save fuel.
On Tuesday, the price of Brent crude oil surged by 3%, nearing $104 per barrel, a significant increase from approximately $72.8 per barrel on February 27, just before the conflict began. Global oil prices have continued to rise following Iran's effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for international shipping, through which about 20% of the world's petroleum supply passes.
The United Arab Emirates reopened its airspace on Tuesday after temporarily closing it as a precaution against ongoing Iranian attacks on cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah.
In Abu Dhabi, falling debris from an intercepted missile tragically resulted in the death of a Pakistani citizen, as reported by city officials.
Iranian officials have stated that the bombings by Israel and the U.S. have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Iranians, including over 200 children.
Israel's Health Ministry reported that more than 3,500 individuals have been injured since the onset of the conflict, with eight in critical condition.

Escalation of Tensions

The conflict in West Asia escalated on February 28 when Israel and the U.S. launched a coordinated operation aimed at undermining the Iranian government's capabilities. This military action was fueled by rising tensions over Iran's nuclear program, with the U.S. acting as a security guarantor for Israel. Israel has expressed concerns that Iran is nearing the development of a nuclear weapon, which could significantly alter the regional security landscape.

Iran has consistently asserted that its nuclear ambitions are solely for peaceful purposes.

The International Energy Agency recently indicated that the ongoing fighting has led to the most significant supply disruption in the history of the global oil market.