In a significant military engagement during the Sri Lankan Civil War, the Sri Lanka Air Force targeted a church in Navaly, where Tamil civilian refugees had gathered. This attack on July 9, resulted in the tragic loss of 125 lives, sparking outrage both domestically and internationally. The bombing is often cited as an example of the complexities and atrocities that can arise in civil conflicts, particularly concerning the treatment of non-combatants. Navaly, located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, was home to many displaced individuals who were seeking refuge from the brutalities of the ongoing war between the government and the separatist group, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

The attack raised alarms regarding the ethical implications of using air power in populated regions, as many of the victims were civilians. It highlighted the challenges faced by the Sri Lankan government in distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants, which is a critical principle in international humanitarian law. While the government defended its actions by claiming the presence of LTTE forces in the area, the scale of civilian casualties brought significant scrutiny to the military tactics employed.

In the aftermath of the attack, numerous human rights organizations condemned the bombing, calling for accountability and greater protection for civilians in conflict zones. The international response included calls for an investigation into the attack and greater adherence to the principles of proportionality and distinction in warfare. The Navaly church bombing remains a historical touchstone that illustrates the harsh realities of the Sri Lankan Civil War and the broader implications of war on civilian populations.