Sri Lanka launches major rescue mission after U.S. torpedo strike sinks Iranian vessel carrying 180 personnel
Washington/Galle: In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East conflict, a U.S. submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, marking the first time since World War II that the United States has destroyed an enemy combatant ship at sea.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed Wednesday that a U.S. submarine fired a torpedo that struck and sank the Iranian vessel off the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan authorities said their navy recovered 87 bodies and rescued 32 survivors from the waters near Galle. The warship, identified as the IRIS Dena, was carrying 180 personnel when it issued a distress signal.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath told Parliament that Sri Lanka’s navy and air force immediately launched a coordinated rescue operation after receiving the emergency alert.
The strike significantly heightens already fragile tensions across the Middle East and the Indian Ocean region. Analysts warn the incident could trigger broader geopolitical consequences as Washington and Tehran face renewed confrontation on international waters.
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