Conflicting reports about a suspected maritime attack near Sri Lanka have triggered global concern as dozens are confirmed dead, scores injured, and authorities struggle to uncover the truth behind a sinking Iranian vessel.
More than one hundred people remain missing after reports surfaced that an Iranian vessel sank in waters near Sri Lanka following what some international sources described as a submarine attack. The ship was carrying approximately 140 crew members when it went down about forty nautical miles from the port of Galle. Early casualty figures indicate that at least thirty sailors have been confirmed dead, while the number of missing crew members continues to raise fears that the final death toll could be significantly higher.
Rescue operations in the southern seas near Galle have brought dozens of injured survivors to shore. Nearly forty sailors wounded in the incident have been admitted to the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital in Galle, where medical teams are continuing treatment. Authorities say the condition of several survivors highlights the seriousness of the maritime emergency that unfolded off Sri Lanka’s southern coastline.
According to reports circulating internationally, the Iranian ship had earlier sailed toward India but was refused entry into an Indian port. After the refusal, the vessel was believed to be returning toward Iran when the reported attack or incident occurred in waters close to Sri Lanka.
However, the Sri Lanka Navy has strongly rejected claims that a submarine attack took place. Addressing reporters at a press conference in Colombo on Tuesday, the Navy spokesperson said there is no truth to foreign media reports suggesting an Iranian ship was attacked in Sri Lankan waters.
The Navy emphasized that when information was first received indicating that the vessel was in danger, the immediate priority was to rescue those on board. Naval units moved quickly to assist the distressed ship and evacuate injured sailors for medical treatment.
Officials also confirmed that a formal technical investigation will be conducted to determine exactly what happened to the vessel and to establish the facts behind the incident.
