Iranian Warship Approaches Sri Lanka Amid Rising Tensions

Tensions in the Middle East escalate as a second Iranian warship approaches Sri Lanka, following the US Navy's sinking of the IRIS Dena. Sri Lankan officials confirm the ship is within their Exclusive Economic Zone, while the US takes responsibility for the attack. This incident has led to renewed hostilities, with Iran launching strikes against US and Israeli bases. The situation remains critical as regional security is at stake.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 5, 2026, 15:45 IST

Iranian Naval Activity Near Sri Lanka

Colombo: On Thursday, March 5, Sri Lankan Minister Nalinda Jayatissa announced that a second Iranian warship is reportedly making its way towards the waters of Sri Lanka. This news follows the US Navy's recent sinking of the IRIS Dena, an Iranian frigate, which resulted in the loss of 87 sailors. Minister Jayatissa confirmed that the Iranian Naval Ship (IRINS) Bushehr is currently located within Sri Lanka's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Responding to inquiries from Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa regarding the government's awareness of the situation, Jayatissa assured that the administration is taking steps to address the matter. He stated, "The government is aware of the situation and is making necessary interventions to mitigate loss of life and ensure regional security. This vessel is not in our territorial waters; it is within the Exclusive Economic Zone. However, we are making maximum efforts regarding the safety of lives. A comprehensive report will be presented in Parliament," as reported by Daily Mirror.

US Navy's Action Against Iranian Vessel: The United States took responsibility for the sinking of the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena on Wednesday night, with the Defence Secretary confirming that a US submarine executed the strike using a torpedo. The Pentagon indicated that the submarine engaged the Iranian ship after it was deemed a potential threat amid rising regional tensions. Officials noted that the torpedo strike was executed with precision, leading to the swift incapacitation of the warship.

This incident has significantly escalated the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Following the sinking of the Iranian warship, Tehran initiated a new series of attacks on Thursday morning targeting Israeli and American bases. In response, the United States and Israel conducted airstrikes on Iran on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian leaders. Iran subsequently retaliated with strikes against Israel and US allies in the region.