Tensions in the Middle East conflict escalated sharply after Iran accused the United States of sinking one of its naval vessels in the Indian Ocean. Tehran strongly condemned the attack, warning that Washington would face serious consequences.
Iran Condemns Attack on Warship
Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi criticised the United States after an American submarine allegedly sank the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean near India.
Araghchi described the strike as an “atrocity” and warned that the United States would “bitterly regret” the move. Iranian authorities said the warship was carrying around 130 sailors and was sailing in international waters at the time of the attack.
First US Submarine Strike on Warship Since WWII
According to US defence officials, a fast-attack submarine from the United States Navy launched a single Mk-48 torpedo that struck and sank the frigate.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the operation during a briefing at the Pentagon, saying the Iranian vessel believed it was safe while sailing in international waters.
Officials noted that this was the first time a US submarine had sunk a surface warship since World War II.
Rescue Operation After Ship Sinks
Following the incident, the Sri Lanka Navy launched a search and rescue mission in the area. Naval ships and aircraft were deployed to locate survivors after the frigate issued a distress signal.
According to Sri Lankan authorities, about 180 people were believed to be on board the vessel. Rescue teams recovered 87 bodies and managed to save 32 sailors from the water.
The incident has further heightened tensions amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Iran, and Israel.