New Delhi witnessed a significant statement from Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath amid rising tensions in the Indian Ocean. Speaking at a conference here on March 7, Herath affirmed that Colombo will treat the rescued Iranian sailors from the torpedoed frigate IRIS Dena strictly in accordance with international law.
The remarks come in the wake of reports suggesting pressure from Washington on Sri Lanka not to repatriate the 32 sailors rescued after a US submarine sank their vessel off the southern coast last Wednesday. Sri Lanka’s navy swiftly responded to the distress, pulling the crew to safety.
Herath emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to global treaties. ‘We are caring for the 32 sailors from the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena as per the terms of international agreements,’ he stated firmly. When pressed on alleged US influence to keep the sailors away from Colombo, he reiterated, ‘All our actions have been in line with international laws.’
The incident unfolded on March 4 in the Indian Ocean, where the IRIS Dena, returning from joint exercises with the Indian Navy, was struck without warning in international waters. Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi condemned it as American barbarism on social media, warning that the US would regret its actions. The frigate, hosting around 130 sailors including Indian naval guests, met a tragic end.
Sri Lanka’s proactive role extended further. Just a day after the Dena attack, Colombo provided safe harbor to another Iranian warship, IRIS Bushehr, which reported engine trouble. The 219 crew members were rescued and escorted to Trincomalee on the northeastern coast.
This episode underscores Sri Lanka’s neutral stance in regional geopolitics, balancing relations with major powers while upholding maritime norms. As investigations continue, Colombo’s adherence to legal protocols sets a precedent for handling such sensitive rescues in contested waters.