140 persons reported missing after US submarine sinks Iranian warship in Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka
At least 140 persons have been reported missing after a submarine belonging to the sank an Iranian warship in the amid escalating tensions in the Middle East conflict.
The Iranian vessel, identified in multiple international reports as the , was reportedly struck by a torpedo during a naval operation in international waters. The incident occurred off the southern coast of , near the port city of .
According to defense officials, the submarine engagement marks one of the most significant direct naval confrontations between the United States and Iran in recent years. The strike reportedly followed heightened maritime surveillance and military maneuvers linked to the broader regional crisis.
Rescue operations were swiftly launched by Sri Lankan naval authorities after distress signals were received from the sinking vessel. While dozens of sailors have reportedly been rescued, authorities confirmed that over 140 crew members remain unaccounted for as search-and-rescue efforts continue.
Iranian authorities have yet to release a full casualty list but condemned the attack, describing it as a violation of maritime stability. Meanwhile, U.S. defense officials maintain that the operation was conducted in accordance with international maritime law.
Security analysts warn that the incident could further inflame tensions across global shipping routes, particularly in critical maritime corridors connected to the Middle East and Asia.
The development adds another dangerous layer to the ongoing geopolitical confrontation involving Washington and Tehran, raising fears of broader military escalation with global implications.
