### 📈 Legend of Defence Journalism Iqbal Athas Passes Away at 81

Sri Lanka mourns the loss of Iqbal Athas, a pioneering journalist and veteran defence analyst, who passed away yesterday at the age of 81. Known for setting the benchmark in military and political reporting, his career spanned over five decades across national and international media. • Career Milestones: • Served as the long-time Political Editor and Consultant Editor of the Sunday Times. • Extensive international footprint as a correspondent for CNN, Jane’s Defence Weekly, UPI, and WTN. • Began his journey at the Sun newspaper, eventually becoming a household name through his "Situation Report" column. • Economic & National Impact: • Instrumental in promoting transparency by exposing high-level corruption and irregularities in defence procurement (notably the MiG-27 and mortar shell deals). • His reporting frequently highlighted the fiscal mismanagement within the military establishment, advocating for accountability in national spending during and after the armed conflict. • Global Recognition & Resilience: • International Press Freedom Award winner (CPJ, 1994) and Sri Lanka’s Journalist of the Year (1998). • Part of the CNN team that won the Alfred I. Dupont-Columbia University Award for 2004 Tsunami coverage. • Persisted in investigative journalism despite multiple threats to his life, physical attacks, and periods of forced self-exile. Athas leaves behind a legacy of uncompromising integrity that helped the public and policymakers understand the complex intersections of security, governance, and national economy.