Tehran says frigate ‘IRIS Dena’ was struck without warning in the Indian Ocean
March 5, 2026: Iran has strongly criticised the United States after its naval frigate IRIS Dena was sunk in the Indian Ocean on Wednesday. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi alleged that the vessel, which he described as “a guest of the Indian Navy”, was attacked without warning by US forces. The incident has further escalated tensions between Tehran and Washington amid the widening regional conflict.
According to Iranian officials, the warship had recently participated in naval engagements hosted by Indian Navy before beginning its return journey. Araqchi condemned the strike, saying the ship had been operating in international waters when it was targeted, and called the attack an unjustified escalation in the ongoing confrontation between the two countries.
The sinking of IRIS Dena has also raised concerns across the region as the broader conflict between the United States and Iran continues to intensify, drawing in several Middle Eastern nations. Defence analysts note that the incident is believed to be the first time since World War II that a US torpedo strike has sunk a ship in the Indian Ocean, highlighting the seriousness of the developing naval confrontation.