US Attack Kills 87 on Iranian Warship Near Sri Lanka

BEIJING – The US-Iran-Israel war widened dramatically after a US submarine sank the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka. Dozens of sailors were killed in the attack. The war entered its fifth day, raising global fears of a wider regional conflict. Markets reacted sharply as energy supply concerns intensified.

According to US Central Command, American forces have struck or sunk more than 20 Iranian ships during the ongoing conflict. The IRIS Dena had been returning to Iran from eastern India when it was attacked in international waters. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the strike, calling it a precise torpedo attack. A Pentagon video showed a massive explosion tearing through the rear of the ship.

Sri Lankan authorities reported at least 87 sailors killed, 32 rescued, and around 60 still missing. Rescue operations continue as teams search for survivors. The rescued sailors were treated for minor injuries at Galle hospital. Security was tightened around the hospital ward treating the survivors. Search-and-rescue efforts are ongoing amid tense conditions in the Indian Ocean.

The submarine strike expanded the geographical scope of the war far beyond the Persian Gulf. Hostilities between US, Israeli, and Iranian forces had previously centered in the Gulf region. The incident demonstrates the conflict’s escalation and the vulnerability of international waters. Analysts warn the war could destabilize shipping lanes and energy routes across the Indian Ocean.

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Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains paralyzed for a fifth day. Approximately 200 vessels remain anchored, and oil and gas flows are severely disrupted. US President Donald Trump pledged insurance and naval escorts to secure energy exports. Despite reassurances, oil prices stayed near their highest levels in over a year. Global markets continue to react to shipping disruptions and energy uncertainty.

Israeli strikes in Tehran targeted security compounds linked to Revolutionary Guards, intelligence, and cyber units. Meanwhile, Hezbollah launched rockets and drones into Israel, prompting evacuation warnings across southern Lebanon. The conflict now involves multiple regional actors, widening beyond the Persian Gulf. Israeli authorities eased some public restrictions temporarily while schools remain closed.

The war unfolds amid political uncertainty in Iran after the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His son is emerging as a leading contender to succeed him. Analysts suggest Tehran will resist international pressure despite growing losses. The combined military, political, and economic pressures indicate the conflict may escalate further.