U.S. Submarine Sinks Iranian Warship off Sri Lanka, Escalating Tensions

A U.S. Submarine has sunk an Iranian warship in international waters off the southern coast of Sri Lanka, resulting in at least 80 confirmed fatalities and dozens of injuries. The incident, confirmed by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran and represents the first sinking of an enemy vessel by a torpedo since World War II.

Details of the Incident

The Iranian frigate, identified as the IRIS Shahid Soleimani, was struck by a Mark 48 torpedo late Tuesday night, according to Pentagon officials . Secretary Hegseth stated the ship “thought it was safe in international waters.” The vessel was reportedly carrying 180 people.

Rescue Efforts and Casualties

Sri Lanka’s navy responded to distress signals from the IRIS Shahid Soleimani and initiated a rescue operation. As of Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 87 bodies have been recovered, and 32 individuals have been rescued . The rescued sailors are receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Galle, Sri Lanka .

U.S. Response and Justification

Secretary Hegseth defended the action, stating the Iranian navy is now “at the bottom of the Persian Gulf” . He released footage purportedly showing the attack, describing the IRIS Shahid Soleimani as the Islamic Republic’s “prize ship.” Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine confirmed that a single Mark 48 torpedo was used in the strike.

International Reaction and Concerns

The sinking of the Iranian warship has drawn international attention and raised concerns about further escalation in the region. Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath informed parliament about the incident, detailing the initial reports of the ship being in distress . Navy spokesman Commander Buddhika Sampath reported finding only oil patches and life rafts at the location, with no sign of the ship itself.

The IRIS Shahid Soleimani

The sunken vessel was named after Qassem Soleimani, a prominent commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) who was killed in a U.S. Drone strike in 2020 .