Key Points
- The ship, IRIS Dena, was struck by a US submarine torpedo in international waters off Sri Lanka
- Sri Lankan authorities report 32 crew rescued and 87 bodies recovered; rescue operations continue
- Araghchi called the attack unprovoked and an “atrocity at sea” and warned against further escalation
ISLAMABAD: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday that the United States will “bitterly regret” the precedent set by the sinking of an Iranian warship, warning of serious consequences for regional stability.
The remarks followed the attack on the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in international waters near Sri Lanka by a US submarine.
According to statements released and shared on X (formerly Twitter), Araghchi described the strike on IRIS Dena as an unprovoked act and an “atrocity at sea,” stressing that the incident marks a dangerous escalation in ongoing hostilities between Iran and US-led coalition forces.
The IRIS Dena was participating as a guest of the Indian Navy when it was targeted.
Sri Lankan authorities have confirmed that 32 crew members were rescued and 87 bodies recovered, while rescue operations continue for those still missing.
The US Department of Defence confirmed that a US submarine fired a torpedo that sank the vessel, highlighting the significant escalation in naval engagements in the region.
The attack comes amid heightened military clashes in the Middle East, where exchanges of missiles and drones between Iran and coalition forces have already strained maritime security and global energy supply routes.
Analysts say Araghchi’s warning signals potential diplomatic and military retaliation from Tehran, which may include restricting access to strategic waterways or engaging in further military operations. They cite Iran’s state TV report of hitting a US-linked oil tanker in the Arabian Gulf as early signs of Iranian retaliation for the sinking of their ship, which was not part of war.
Details on additional casualties, the full complement of the crew, and the tactical circumstances of the torpedo strike remain under investigation by international and regional authorities.
