Iranian warship reportedly sunk after alleged US submarine strike

COLOMBO: A video has surfaced purportedly showing an alleged submarine strike on an Iranian warship near Sri Lanka, triggering a major international controversy.

According to footage released by the United States Department of Defense, a torpedo can be seen striking the Iranian naval vessel, followed by a massive explosion at sea.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that American forces targeted the Iranian warship. He stated that the vessel appeared to believe it was secure in international waters, but “that assumption proved incorrect.”

Vessel Identified as IRIS Dena

Foreign media reports, quoting US officials, earlier claimed that the strike was carried out by an American submarine. The vessel has been identified as IRIS Dena, which was reportedly returning to Iran after participating in military exercises in India.

Sri Lanka’s foreign ministry confirmed that upon receiving distress signals about the sinking of the Iranian vessel near its coastline, the Sri Lanka Navy dispatched rescue teams. However, by the time assistance arrived at the scene, the ship had already sunk.

Officials stated that at least 30 injured sailors were rescued and shifted to a nearby hospital. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s deputy foreign minister reportedly said that around 80 personnel were killed in the alleged US strike.

The incident has raised serious concerns about escalating tensions in regional waters, with further international reaction expected in the coming days.