Sri Lanka launches attacks rebel-controlled areas

SRI LANKA’S military unleashed airstrikes and mortar attacks yesterday at areas controlled by Tamil Tiger insurgents, who said that 15,000 people had fled the second day of violence sparked by a suspected rebel suicide bombing.

European monitors said the violence was violating a four-year-old cease-fire.

A top military analyst said Sri Lanka could return to full-scale warfare if the government’s military operation expands and results in substantial rebel casualties.