Watch: Sri Lanka evacuates 208 crew from second Iranian ship

Sri Lanka has initiated the evacuation of 208 crew members from the Iranian naval vessel IRINS Bushehr, which is currently stranded near the nation's territorial waters. This operation was confirmed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on March 5, 2026. The evacuation comes in the wake of heightened tensions in the region, particularly following a recent incident where a U.S. submarine torpedoed another Iranian warship off the southern coast of Sri Lanka, resulting in the death of at least 84 sailors. This escalation marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict in West Asia, extending its implications into the Indian Ocean. The Sri Lankan government is taking swift action to ensure the safety of the crew amidst the growing instability, reflecting the country’s strategic position in the region and its involvement in international maritime security issues. The situation remains fluid as Sri Lanka navigates the complexities of foreign relations and regional security concerns.