Sri Lanka is facing a wave of political controversy after allegations emerged that a United States submarine attacked an Iranian naval vessel travelling towards the island, raising serious concerns about sovereignty and foreign influence. The Iranian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Alireza Delkhosh, revealed at a press conference in Colombo that the vessel “IRIS Dena” had been targeted while en route on a goodwill visit following an official invitation from the Sri Lankan Navy.
The claims have ignited strong reactions within the country’s political landscape. Trincomalee District Member of Parliament Imran Maharoof condemned the alleged incident, describing it as shocking and deeply troubling. He warned that such an event raises critical questions about Sri Lanka’s ability to defend its territorial waters and maintain its independence in the face of foreign military actions.
According to Maharoof, the Iranian vessel’s visit had been arranged after direct engagement during the Milan-2026 international naval exercise in India, where the Sri Lankan Navy extended the invitation. He criticised the government’s response, arguing that allowing an invited vessel to be attacked so close to Sri Lanka’s maritime boundaries represents a serious diplomatic failure and an affront to the nation’s global standing.
Reports indicate that the alleged strike occurred approximately 40 to 44 nautical miles south of Galle, placing it within or very near Sri Lanka’s maritime zone. Maharoof emphasised that any unilateral military action by a foreign power in such proximity constitutes a direct challenge to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The incident has intensified public and political scrutiny, with growing calls for accountability. Critics are demanding to know why the government has remained silent, whether Sri Lankan waters are being used as a battleground for foreign conflicts, and why no formal protest has been lodged against the United States. As tensions rise, the controversy threatens to deepen concerns over Sri Lanka’s foreign policy direction and its ability to safeguard national sovereignty.
