Under international law and naval practice, India cannot be held responsible for the sinking of the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena.
Key facts of the incident
The ship had visited Visakhapatnam to participate in the International Fleet Review 2026 and MILAN 2026 naval exercise hosted by the Indian Navy.
After the exercises ended, the vessel departed Indian waters and was sailing back toward Iran.
The attack reportedly happened in international waters near Sri Lanka, outside India’s jurisdiction.
Legal and maritime position
A country’s responsibility for foreign ships ends once they leave its territorial waters.
India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extends about 200 nautical miles (≈370 km) from its coast.
The reported attack occurred outside this zone, meaning India had no operational control or obligation to protect the ship.
Escort and protection issue
Naval protection or escort is provided only when requested or formally arranged.
Reports indicate the Iranian vessel did not request escort or shelter from the Indian Navy while returning home.
Political criticism
Some opposition leaders in India criticized the government for not reacting strongly, including Supriya Shrinate and Jawhar Sircar, arguing India should have condemned the incident because the ship had been a guest during the naval exercise.
Strategic agreement discussion
The incident also revived debate around the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement between India and the United States, which allows logistical cooperation between their militaries but requires India’s approval for each use and does not automatically involve India in U.S. military actions.
