US Submarine Hits Iranian Ship Near Sri Lanka

A U. S. submarine struck an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean on March 4, marking the first torpedo sinking of a vessel by the United States since World War Two. The attack occurred inside Sri Lanka’s exclusive economic zone, about 19 nautical miles from the port of Galle. The Iranian ship, named IRIS Dena, was returning to its home port after taking part in a two‑week naval exercise held off the coast of Visakhapatnam, India. During the drill, which drew 18 foreign warships and delegates from more than 70 countries, the Dena was sailing as a “guest” of India’s navy. Sri Lankan authorities launched a rescue mission after the ship sent out a distress call early Wednesday morning. When rescuers arrived, the vessel had already gone down, leaving an oil slick on the surface.

Out of approximately 130 crew members, bodies were recovered from 87 sailors and 32 survivors were taken to hospitals for minor injuries. Search efforts continue for an estimated ten people who remain missing. The incident has sparked varied reactions. India welcomed the Dena’s participation in its drill, viewing it as a sign of close cultural ties. Iran condemned the attack, accusing the U. S. of setting a dangerous precedent and demanding that it will suffer bitter regret. India has not issued an official statement, while opposition parties in New Delhi have criticized the government’s silence and highlighted how the conflict has spilled into their own waters. The event underscores growing tensions in the Indian Ocean, where naval exercises and power plays increasingly intersect.

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