In Colombo, Sri Lanka several Iranian sailors are recovering in a hospital in Sri Lanka after what Iranian and Sri Lankan officials described as an attack on an Iranian vessel by a United States submarine in waters of the Indian Ocean earlier this week.
According to Iranian maritime authorities, the incident occurred when an Iranian support vessel operating in international waters reportedly came under fire from a submarine believed to belong to the United States Navy. Officials say the attack caused significant damage to the vessel and injured multiple crew members.
Sri Lankan port officials confirmed that the damaged ship requested emergency assistance and was allowed to dock at a southern Sri Lankan port for medical and technical support. A group of injured sailors were transported to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment for blast-related and shrapnel injuries. Hospital authorities said most of the sailors are in stable condition.
Iranian officials condemned the incident, calling it an “unprovoked and dangerous act” that endangered civilian maritime personnel. In a statement released by the Iranian foreign ministry, authorities said they are investigating the circumstances of the attack and are considering diplomatic responses.
The United States has not officially confirmed involvement in the reported strike. However, a U.S. defense official speaking anonymously told international media that American naval forces are regularly operating in the region to monitor maritime security and protect shipping routes.
Sri Lankan authorities said their priority is providing humanitarian assistance to the injured sailors and ensuring safety within their territorial waters. The government has not commented on the alleged source of the attack but confirmed that it is coordinating with maritime agencies and diplomatic representatives from both countries.
The Indian Ocean remains a strategically sensitive region where naval forces from multiple countries operate. Analysts say incidents involving military vessels can quickly escalate tensions if not clarified through diplomatic channels.
For now, hospital officials say the injured sailors are expected to remain under medical observation for several days as doctors continue treatment.
Further details about the vessel involved and the exact circumstances surrounding the reported submarine attack remain under investigation.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
