Iranian Warship Sinks Following Reported Submarine Attack Off Sri Lanka
A major naval disaster has unfolded in the Indian Ocean as an Iranian warship, the Iris Dena, sank after reporting a submarine attack off the coast of Sri Lanka. The incident has sparked a large-scale rescue operation, with more than 100 personnel missing and 78 others confirmed wounded.
Rescue Mission Launched After Distress Call
Sri Lanka’s navy and air force initiated a joint rescue mission on Wednesday after the Iranian frigate ran aground near the southern coastal city of Galle. According to officials, the vessel issued a distress call indicating it had been struck, prompting immediate evacuation efforts for the crew. A navy spokesperson stated that the operation is focused on retrieving survivors from the troubled waters.
The Iris Dena, a Moudge-class frigate serving in the Iranian Navy’s Southern Fleet, was carrying at least 180 personnel when it encountered difficulties. The warship had recently participated in the MILAN 2026 multinational naval exercises held in Visakhapatnam, India, highlighting its active role in regional maritime operations prior to the incident.
Details of the Attack and Aftermath
While initial reports describe the event as a submarine attack, specific details regarding the assailant or the nature of the engagement remain unclear. The sinking has resulted in significant casualties, with over half of the crew unaccounted for and dozens injured, underscoring the severity of the maritime emergency.
The location off Galle, a key port city in Sri Lanka, has become the centre of intensive search and rescue activities, with local and potentially international assets mobilised to assist in the effort. This incident marks one of the most serious naval losses for Iran in recent years, raising questions about maritime security in the region.
As the situation develops, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and the subsequent sinking, with updates expected on the fate of the missing crew members and the broader implications for naval operations in the Indian Ocean.
