The USA confirmed that an American submarine sank an Iranian warship, the IRIS Dena, using a torpedo off the coast of Sri Lanka on Monday in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lankan officials confirmed the incident and initiated rescue operations following a distress call from the vessel.
Key points
- US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the sinking at a Pentagon press conference, calling it the first sinking of an enemy ship by a torpedo since WWII.
- The Iranian vessel, identified as the frigate 'IRIS Dena,' was reportedly built by Iran and armed with heavy guns and missiles.
- Sri Lankan Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed the strike occurred around 5 am local time.
- Casualty reports vary: Reuters cited the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister stating at least 80 people were killed, while dpa reported 101 missing.
- Sri Lankan naval vessels were dispatched for rescue efforts by 6 am local time.
Why it matters
This event marks the first time a US submarine has sunk an enemy ship with a torpedo since World War II, significantly escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
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