Search and rescue operations continue off the coast of Sri Lanka following the sinking of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena in international waters. The ship was sunk by a torpedo fired from a U.S. Submarine. As of Thursday, March 5, 2026, authorities have recovered the bodies of 87 people from an estimated crew of 180.
Iranian Warship Sunk
According to the Sri Lankan Navy spokesperson, Commander Buddhika Sampath, 32 sailors have been rescued and are receiving medical care at the National Hospital of Galle. Sampath stated, “When we arrived in the area, we did not see the ship, only oil stains on the water and life rafts.” He emphasized that saving lives remains the top priority.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi called the incident an “atrocity” and warned that “United States will bitterly regret the precedent it has set” by sinking the warship. This marks the first time since World War II that a U.S. Submarine has sunk an enemy vessel using a torpedo.
Araqchi further stated that the Iranian frigate Dena was attacked in international waters without prior warning, whereas returning from a naval review and joint military exercises in Visakhapatnam, India.
Sri Lanka has confirmed the presence of a second Iranian vessel in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Minister Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the government is taking “necessary interventions to resolve this issue, limit the threat to lives and ensure regional security.”
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that a U.S. Submarine sank the Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Iranian warship IRIS Dena?
The IRIS Dena was sunk by a torpedo fired from a U.S. Submarine in international waters. As of March 5, 2026, 87 bodies have been recovered, and 32 sailors have been rescued.
How has Iran responded to the sinking?
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has called the sinking an “atrocity” and warned that the United States will “bitterly regret” its actions.
What is Sri Lanka’s role in this situation?
Sri Lanka is conducting search and rescue operations for missing Iranian sailors and has confirmed the presence of a second Iranian vessel in its Exclusive Economic Zone. The government is working to ensure regional security.
What impact might this event have on broader geopolitical stability in the Indian Ocean region?
