Over 100 people missing, 78 injured after Iranian Navy frigate sinks off Sri Lanka coast

More than 100 people are reported missing and at least 78 others injured after an Iranian naval frigate sent out a distress call off the coast of Sri Lanka following a suspected submarine attack. The incident triggered an immediate rescue operation by Sri Lankan naval and air forces in the Indian Ocean.

According to reports, the Iranian Navy vessel Iris Dena, a Moudge-class frigate, began sinking about 40 nautical miles off the port city of Galle, just beyond Sri Lanka’s territorial waters. The warship was carrying around 180 crew members when it reportedly started taking on water at dawn.

Responding to the distress call, Sri Lanka deployed ships and aircraft to rescue sailors from the stricken vessel. Authorities launched a large-scale operation to evacuate the crew and provide emergency medical assistance.

Injured Sailors Rushed to Hospital

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed in parliament that 30 injured sailors were being transported to a hospital in the southern part of the island. The main hospital in Galle, located about 115 kilometres from the capital Colombo, was placed on high alert to receive those evacuated from the ship.

Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara stated that both the Navy and Air Force were working together to rescue the remaining crew members.

Operation Under Maritime Obligations

Sri Lankan Navy spokesman Buddhika Sampath said the country responded to the distress call as part of its international maritime responsibilities. He noted that the incident occurred within Sri Lanka’s designated Search and Rescue Area in the Indian Ocean.

Tensions Rise in Strategic Waters

Although the exact cause of the sinking has not been officially confirmed, the incident comes amid rising tensions in West Asia following recent military strikes involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

As the rescue mission continues, the incident highlights growing security concerns in crucial global shipping routes and the risks faced by vessels operating in increasingly tense maritime regions.