Northern Theatre of Eelam War IV

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The Northern Theatre of Eelam War IV was a major part of the Sri Lankan civil war, fought in the country’s north from July 2006 to May 18, 2009. It pitted the Sri Lankan government forces, led by General Sarath Fonseka, against the LTTE (Tamil Tigers, led by Velupillai Prabhakaran).

The fighting began when the LTTE blocked the sluice gates of Mavil Aru (Mavil Oya) on July 21, 2006, cutting water supply to about 15,000 government-controlled villages. After failed negotiations, the Sri Lankan Air Force attacked LTTE positions on July 26, and ground troops moved in to reopen the gates. The LTTE claimed the cease-fire was over, though the government insisted the cease-fire remained in effect. By August 15, government forces had won full control of the Mavil Aru reservoir.

Soon after, fighting moved to the Jaffna Peninsula, which had been cut off from the rest of Sri Lanka since 2000. The LTTE attempted to seize the Trincomalee naval base to cut supplies to the forces in Jaffna, but the attack failed to secure a long-term hold. The LTTE then pressed major assaults on the forward defense lines at Muhamalai and Nargakovil. After intense fighting, the LTTE was pushed back, suffering heavy casualties on both sides. In the fall of 2006 and into 2007, the conflict continued with frequent offensives and stalemates.

In 2007–2008, government forces advanced in Mannar District, capturing key areas such as Silavaturai and Arrippu, and later Adampan. They moved toward the Madhu Shrine area, and in early 2008 repaired and handed the shrine back to the local bishop, who asked that the site be respected as a no-war zone. By August 2, 2008, Vellankulam—the last LTTE stronghold in Mannar—fell, marking a major step in liberating Mannar District. In the same period, fighting continued around Welioya and Vavuniya, including a significant clash at Muhamalai in April 2008 and an LTTE attack on Chiraththivu in May 2008.

The LTTE conducted aerial bombings during 2007–2008, while the Sri Lankan army pressed operations across the north. By late 2008 and into 2009, government forces gained decisive ground, culminating in a Sri Lankan victory on May 18, 2009, ending this phase of the war.