And the post-11 September international mood against terrorism has also brought new pressures on the Tamil Tigers to end their violent struggle that has bled the country for more than 20 years.

BBC: The road to peace in Sri Lanka

But Western diplomats say a strong statement of concern has been sent from New York which will be closely followed by both the Tamil Tigers and Sri Lanka's government.

BBC: Tamil Tigers urged to end fight

Two of her new-found allies are Tamil parties that have distanced themselves from the Tigers.

ECONOMIST: Sri Lanka