US-Israel War with Iran Escalates: Submarine Sinks Iranian Warship

The conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has expanded into the Indian Ocean, with a U.S. Submarine sinking an Iranian warship in international waters near Sri Lanka. This marks the first sinking of an enemy ship by a torpedo since World War II, according to defense officials.

Details of the Incident

The Iranian vessel, identified as the IRIS Dena, was sunk by a torpedo fired from an American submarine. Sri Lankan authorities received a distress call and dispatched ships and aircraft on a rescue mission, recovering over 80 bodies and rescuing more than 30 people, with more remaining missing. The incident occurred close to Sri Lanka’s coast, raising concerns in the region.

Regional Reactions and Concerns

The attack has triggered anxiety across South Asia. Questions have arisen regarding whether India or Sri Lanka were given advance warning of the operation. Sushant Singh, a lecturer in South Asian studies at Yale University and former Indian military officer, expressed concern over the lack of notification, noting India’s cordial relations with the Trump administration and its cautious stance regarding recent events in Iran. NPR reports that India has not yet commented on the sinking.

Implications for India and China

The sinking occurred after the Iranian vessel participated in a ceremonial fleet review in an Indian port in late February, overseen by Indian President and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. Analysts suggest the incident will also raise alarms in China, which is seeking to increase its influence in the Indian Ocean. The U.S. Navy’s actions signal a willingness to operate in the region as it sees fit, potentially prompting a response from China. CNN reports that strikes have targeted Iranian leadership and military assets.

Broader Conflict Context

This incident is part of a larger conflict that began on June 13-24, 2025, known as the Twelve-Day War between Iran and Israel. Wikipedia details this initial conflict, which has now escalated with the involvement of the United States and impacts on multiple countries, including Lebanon. As of March 5, 2026, the U.S. And Israel continue to strike Iran, resulting in at least 1,045 deaths since Saturday, with Israeli forces also targeting Lebanon. The U.S. Military has reportedly destroyed 17 Iranian ships as part of its campaign.

Ongoing Developments

The United States Senate has backed President Trump’s attacks on Tehran, and the conflict continues to disrupt global travel and commodity prices. The U.S. Has closed embassies in three countries and urged Americans to leave the region. The price of gasoline in the U.S. Has seen its largest one-day increase since 2005 due to the war’s threat to the global economy.