Iranian Warship Sunk by US Submarine Near Sri Lanka

Mar 5, 2026

68 min

Mar 5, 2026 14:31

Iranian frigate sunk near Sri Lanka was returning from India war games

## Incident Overview

An Iranian frigate, IRIS Dena, was sunk by a US submarine near Sri Lanka while returning from naval exercises in India. The attack occurred in international waters in the Indian Ocean, marking a rare instance of a submarine assault on a warship since World War II.

## Rescue Efforts

Sri Lanka's navy responded to a distress call from the Dena, but rescue teams found only oil slicks and sailors in the water upon arrival. They recovered 84 bodies and rescued 32 sailors, who were taken to a hospital in Galle. Initial reports of 87 fatalities were later revised.

## Ongoing Search and Investigation

Search operations continue for missing crew members, with about 180 people believed to have been aboard. A judicial inquest has been launched, and autopsies are being conducted on the recovered bodies.

## Political Reactions

The incident has sparked political debate, particularly in India, where the Dena had participated in exercises. Iran's Foreign Minister criticized the US, calling the attack an "atrocity at sea." US officials described the Dena as a "prize ship," highlighting the expanding scope of US-Israeli military operations against Iran.

## Additional Developments

A second Iranian warship is approaching Sri Lanka's waters, seeking permission to enter due to security concerns. Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is in discussions with officials on how to respond to this request.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents