Sri Lanka Evacuates 208 Crew from Iranian Navy Vessel Amid Conflict
On Thursday, Sri Lanka evacuated 208 crew members from an Iranian Navy vessel, according to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. This action follows the sinking of the IRIS Dena by a US submarine off Sri Lanka's southern coast. The Sri Lankan Navy plans to take control of the second vessel, IRIS Bushehr, and relocate it to Trincomalee for safety. The Iranian crew will be transferred ashore, while 32 rescued crew members are receiving medical treatment. The incident occurs amid escalating tensions following a US-Israel attack on Iran, with Iran's foreign minister condemning the US actions and warning of consequences. Sri Lanka's foreign minister has expressed concern over the situation and called for diplomatic dialogue.
Published 1 day ago • 05 Mar 2026, 10:42 PM IST