30 Facts About Eelam War III

The Beginning of Eelam War III

Eelam War III marked a significant phase in the Sri Lankan Civil War. This conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) lasted from 1995 to 2002. Here are some key facts about this period.

1. Eelam War III began in April 1995 after a ceasefire agreement between the government and LTTE collapsed.
2. The war started with the LTTE launching Operation Unceasing Waves, capturing several military bases in the northern Jaffna Peninsula.
3. The Sri Lankan government responded with Operation Riviresa, aiming to recapture Jaffna from the LTTE.

Major Battles and Operations

The war saw numerous significant battles and military operations. These events shaped the course of the conflict and had lasting impacts on both sides.

4. Operation Riviresa, launched in October 1995, successfully recaptured Jaffna by December 1995.
5. The Battle of Mullaitivu in July 1996 resulted in the LTTE capturing the Sri Lankan Army base, causing heavy casualties.
6. Operation Jayasikurui, launched in May 1997, aimed to open a land route to the Jaffna Peninsula but ended in failure by 1999.
7. The LTTE's Operation Unceasing Waves II in September 1998 led to the capture of the Kilinochchi town.

Humanitarian Impact

The war had a devastating impact on civilians, causing widespread displacement and suffering.

8. Over 800,000 people were displaced during Eelam War III.
9. The conflict led to severe shortages of food, medicine, and other essential supplies in affected areas.
10. Numerous human rights violations were reported, including extrajudicial killings, abductions, and torture.

International Involvement

Various international actors played roles in attempting to mediate and provide aid during the conflict.

11. Norway facilitated peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and LTTE in 2000.
12. The Indian government provided humanitarian aid to civilians affected by the conflict.
13. The United Nations and various NGOs worked to provide relief and document human rights abuses.

Technological and Tactical Changes

Both sides adapted their strategies and technologies throughout the war, leading to significant changes in how the conflict was fought.

14. The LTTE developed a naval wing, the Sea Tigers, which conducted maritime operations against the Sri Lankan Navy.
15. The Sri Lankan Air Force increased its use of airstrikes and surveillance drones.
16. The LTTE used suicide bombers extensively, targeting both military and civilian locations.

Political Developments

The war influenced political dynamics within Sri Lanka, leading to changes in leadership and policy.

17. President Chandrika Kumaratunga's government pursued a dual strategy of military action and peace negotiations.
18. The People's Alliance government faced criticism for its handling of the war and human rights issues.
19. The 2001 parliamentary elections saw the United National Party (UNP) come to power, advocating for renewed peace talks.

The Ceasefire Agreement

Eelam War III eventually ended with a ceasefire agreement, bringing a temporary halt to the fighting.

20. The ceasefire agreement was signed in February 2002 between the Sri Lankan government and LTTE.
21. The agreement was brokered by Norway and included provisions for international monitoring.
22. The ceasefire led to a significant reduction in violence and allowed for increased humanitarian access to conflict-affected areas.

Legacy and Aftermath

The war left a lasting legacy on Sri Lanka, influencing its social, political, and economic landscape.

23. The conflict caused an estimated 70,000 deaths over its duration.
24. The war led to significant economic damage, with infrastructure and livelihoods destroyed in affected areas.
25. The psychological impact on survivors, including trauma and loss, continues to affect communities.

Cultural and Social Impact

The war also had profound effects on Sri Lankan culture and society, shaping identities and narratives.

26. The conflict influenced Sri Lankan literature, film, and art, with many works addressing themes of war and peace.
27. The war exacerbated ethnic tensions between Sinhalese and Tamil communities.
28. Efforts at reconciliation and peacebuilding have been ongoing, with mixed success.

Lessons Learned

Eelam War III offers important lessons for conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts worldwide.

29. The importance of addressing underlying grievances and ensuring inclusive political processes.
30. The need for sustained international engagement and support for post-conflict recovery and reconciliation.

Reflecting on Eelam War III

Eelam War III, a brutal chapter in Sri Lanka's history, left deep scars. This conflict, which lasted from 1995 to 2002, saw intense battles between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Thousands of lives were lost, and countless families were torn apart. The war's impact on civilians was devastating, with many displaced and suffering from trauma. Despite the end of Eelam War III, the underlying issues that sparked the conflict remain unresolved. Understanding this period is crucial for grasping the complexities of Sri Lanka's ongoing struggle for peace and reconciliation. By learning about these events, we can better appreciate the resilience of those affected and the importance of working towards a more harmonious future.