Tragic death of 80 people… American submarine attacks Iranian naval ship, condition of 32 critical

New Delhi : A major accident has occurred in international waters off the coast of Sri Lanka, which shocked the entire world. The American submarine hit and sank the Iranian Navy’s Mauj-class frigate IRIS Dena. At least 80 people were killed in this incident while a total of 180 sailors were on board the ship. Sri Lanka’s Deputy Foreign Minister gave this information on local TV. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also confirmed the attack. The ship was returning from the International Fleet Review held in India. Sri Lanka immediately started rescue operations.

attack on iranian warship

Let us tell you that US Defense Minister Pete Hegseth clearly said that an American military submarine attacked and sank an Iranian warship near the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This attack took place in international waters. Earlier Sri Lankan officials had raised the possibility of an attack but the reason was not clear. Hegseth’s statement now confirms that the incident was caused by an American submarine attack.

There were 180 people on board the ship

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath told Parliament that there were about 180 people on IRIS Dena. It was a Mauj-class frigate. The ship sank on Wednesday when it issued a distress call. The incident occurred 40 nautical miles away from Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan authorities immediately activated the Navy and Air Force. Till now only 32 people have been saved.

The ship was returning from India

IRIS Dena recently participated in the International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam, India. Also participated in naval exercises in the Bay of Bengal from February 18 to 25. The Indian Navy had welcomed the Iranian ship by posting on X. This reflected the old cultural relations between the two countries. After the exercise the ship was on its return journey.

Rescue operation continues

Sri Lankan Navy spokesperson Commander Buddhika Sampath said that rescue operations are in full swing. So far 32 people have been rescued and some bodies have been recovered. The injured are being treated in Galle hospital. The Navy saw the oil stain but did not find the ship. No other ships or aircraft were seen in the area. Sri Lanka said that it will provide all possible help.