An Iranian ship attack Sri Lanka has left more than 100 people missing after a naval vessel reportedly sank near the island’s southern coast.
According to officials in Sri Lanka’s navy and defense ministry, at least 101 sailors are missing and 78 others were wounded following the incident on Wednesday.
The attack happened just outside Sri Lanka’s territorial waters near the coastal city of Galle.
Rescue Operations Underway
Sri Lankan military teams launched an emergency rescue mission after receiving a distress call from the Iranian ship.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath told parliament that 32 critically wounded sailors had been rescued from the damaged vessel.
Those injured were transported to medical facilities in Galle, including the National Hospital, where security forces were seen guarding the area.
Details about Sri Lanka’s naval operations and maritime security are available through the Sri Lanka Navy official website.
Iranian Frigate Reportedly Sunk
Officials identified the vessel as the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena.
The ship reportedly sank after what sources described as a submarine attack. Authorities have not publicly confirmed which country may have launched the strike.
Defense analysts say the incident occurred in a sensitive shipping corridor used by both commercial vessels and military fleets.
Search for Missing Sailors Continues
Rescue teams are continuing operations to locate missing crew members.
Sri Lankan authorities said search efforts are focusing on waters near the southern coastline. Naval ships and aircraft have been deployed to scan the area.
International maritime safety guidelines for rescue operations are coordinated through agencies such as the International Maritime Organization.
Regional Tensions Rising
The incident comes during a period of heightened military tension involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Recent days have seen missile strikes, drone attacks, and naval confrontations across the Middle East and surrounding regions.
Analysts warn that attacks on naval vessels outside active battle zones could widen the conflict and disrupt global shipping routes.
For now, Sri Lankan authorities say their priority remains rescue operations and caring for injured sailors as investigations into the attack continue.