The expanding conflict between theUnited StatesandIranhas now reached the Indian Ocean, a maritime space that India has long described as central to its strategic vision. Yet as the crisis unfolded, India appeared largely a silent spectator.
In Indian culture, the phrase Atithi Devo Bhava — “the guest is equivalent to God” — reflects a deeply held belief in extending respect and protection to those who visit. It was India that invited the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena to participate in two naval events hosted at Visakhapatnam, a major naval hub on India’s eastern coast.Irangracefully accepted the invitation and its ship sailed to the Indian Ocean to join exercises hosted by the Indian Navy’s Eastern Naval Command. Yet when the same vessel was later attacked by a U.S. submarine while returning home, India’s public response remained minimal. For a country that often describes itself as a guardian of stability in the Indian Ocean, the silence has been striking.
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The events that led to the attack began with two high-profile maritime gatherings hosted by the Indian Navy. The Iranian frigate had travelled to India to participate in Exercise MILAN 2026, a large multinational naval exercise involving dozens of countries, and the International Fleet Review 2026, a ceremonial gathering of warships conducted on behalf of the President of India. Both events were held in Visakhapatnam and brought naval forces from across the world into the Indian Ocean. After completing these engagements, the IRIS Dena began its return journey to Iran.
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On 4 March 2026, while sailing in the Indian Ocean roughly 40 nautical miles south of Galle, Sri Lanka, the Iranian warship was struck by a torpedo fired from a U.S. Navy submarine.
The attack was devastating. Around 180 crew members were believed to be on board. Sri Lankan rescuers recovered 87 bodies and about 32 sailors were rescued, while more than 60 remain missing.
India’s official response focused on the humanitarian dimension. The Indian Navy said it received a distress signal from the vessel and joined Sri Lanka in search-and-rescue operations.
Source: The Probe: Investigative Journalism & In-Depth News Analysis
