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New Delhi, March 7: Iran has expressed gratitude to India for providing humanitarian assistance and safe docking facilities to its naval ship IRIS Lavan at Kochi Port in Kerala. The vessel arrived in India to complete technical and logistical arrangements after the sinking of another Iranian warship, IRIS Dena, in the Indian Ocean.
Iran’s Ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali thanked the Indian government and local authorities for their cooperation during the difficult situation.
IRIS Lavan Docked at Kochi for Technical Support
Speaking in an interview, Ambassador Fathali said Iran continues to closely monitor the situation after the tragic incident involving IRIS Dena.
The Iranian naval vessel IRIS Lavan docked at Kochi port to make technical and logistical preparations while authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“I sincerely thank the Government of India and local authorities for their humanitarian approach and cooperation in facilitating the docking of the vessel and supporting its crew,” Fathali said.
India’s Assistance Reflects Strong Bilateral Relations
The Iranian envoy said India’s support during the crisis reflects the longstanding friendship between Iran and India.
He added that cooperation between the two nations during difficult circumstances highlights their strong diplomatic relationship.
Iran also expressed appreciation to the people and government of India for their continued support and assistance.
Crew of IRIS Lavan Staying at Naval Facilities
According to government sources, IRIS Lavan has a crew of 183 personnel. The crew members are currently staying at Indian naval facilities in Kochi.
The ship had earlier participated in the International Fleet Review 2026 and the multinational naval exercise MILAN 2026, held from February 15 to February 25.
Iran had requested India for emergency docking support on February 28 after the vessel developed technical issues. India approved the request on March 1, and the ship arrived at Kochi on March 4.
IRIS Dena Sinking Triggered Rescue Operations
Earlier, the Iranian naval ship IRIS Dena sank near Sri Lanka after reportedly being hit by a torpedo from a US submarine.
Following the incident, the Indian Navy joined search and rescue operations led by the Sri Lanka Navy.
India deployed ships such as INS Tarangini and INS Ikshak, along with P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, to assist in rescue operations.
Reports suggest that around 87 sailors died, while 32 survivors were rescued and taken to hospitals in Galle.
Rising Tensions in West Asia
The developments come amid escalating tensions in West Asia following a joint US-Israel military strike on Iran.
The strike reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, triggering retaliation from Tehran with drone and missile attacks on American and Israeli targets in the region.
Despite complex geopolitical tensions, India continues to maintain its historic relations with Iran while also balancing its strategic partnership with the United States.
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