Second Iranian Warship Near Sri Lanka After Attack

A second Iranian warship is reportedly approaching Sri Lanka’s territorial waters, a day after a US submarine sank an Iranian naval vessel in the Indian Ocean, according to statements from Sri Lankan officials.

Sri Lanka’s Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa informed parliament that the vessel was located just outside the country’s territorial waters. However, officials did not provide further details about the ship or its immediate plans.

Sri Lanka reviewing Iran’s request

Reports indicate that Iran has requested permission for the warship to enter Sri Lankan waters for safety.

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has reportedly held discussions with senior officials to assess how the government should respond to the request, according to international media reports citing official sources.

The ship is believed to be carrying more than 100 crew members, who are reportedly concerned about potential threats following the recent naval attack in nearby waters.

US submarine reportedly sank Iranian frigate

The development comes shortly after a US submarine attack reportedly destroyed the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean.

According to available reports, the strike resulted in the deaths of at least 87 sailors, making it one of the most serious naval incidents linked to the widening regional conflict.

The attack reportedly occurred about 40 kilometres south of the Sri Lankan port city of Galle.

Rescue and medical response

Authorities in Galle were preparing to hand over the remains of the sailors killed in the incident.

Sri Lankan officials said 32 rescued Iranian crew members are currently receiving treatment at a hospital under security arrangements involving police and special command units.

Medical staff reported that most survivors sustained minor injuries, although some reportedly suffered fractures and burn injuries.

The hospital’s emergency treatment unit has been temporarily restricted to visitors while the injured sailors receive care.

Search operations continue

The Sri Lankan Navy has continued search operations in the area for additional missing sailors following the sinking of the Iranian warship.

Officials said the frigate had issued a distress signal early Wednesday, but it had already sunk by the time rescue teams reached the location.

According to reports, the vessel had recently participated in a military exercise in Visakhapatnam, India, before the incident occurred.

Sri Lanka maintains neutral stance

Sri Lanka has maintained a neutral diplomatic position regarding the broader conflict and has repeatedly called for dialogue to reduce tensions in the region.

Iran also maintains economic ties with Sri Lanka, particularly as a major buyer of Sri Lankan tea, which is one of the country’s key export commodities.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as regional tensions remain high.