Iran Warns US Will Regret Sinking of Warship Dena Off Sri Lanka

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that a US strike sank the Iranian naval frigate Dena in international waters approximately 2,000 miles from Iran's coast, describing the incident as a "major disaster" and warning that the United States would "deeply regret" or "fiercely regret" the precedent.

Araghchi said the vessel, carrying 130 crew members and returning from a visit to the Indian Navy or participation in an Indian-organized naval exercise in the Bay of Bengal from February 18-25, was attacked without warning. RTA reported Araghchi specifying 130 naval personnel killed.

Sri Lankan officials confirmed the warship was struck off the country's southern coast. Authorities in Galle reported rescue operations after a distress call, with 32 survivors treated in hospitals. Casualty figures varied: Sri Lankan officials cited by Khaama Press reported at least 80 crew dead; a Galle hospital per Pajhwok noted 87 bodies transferred, 32 rescued, around 180 total crew and approximately 60 missing.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the strike, stating a US warship or submarine sank the Dena, which American forces believed was in safe international waters. Khaama Press specified a US warship, while Pajhwok cited a US submarine.

The incident occurred amid escalating US-Israel-Iran tensions in the Middle East following coordinated strikes.