Why India allowed Iranian ship in amid US-Iran tensions
India allowed the Iranian ship IRIS Lavan to dock in Kochi after it ran into technical trouble, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar saying that we believe that this was the right thing to do.
Iran had asked for help on February 28, 2026, as tensions were rising in the region due to U.S.-Israel strikes.
The ship arrived with 183 crew members on March 4.
IRIS Dena sank on same day India granted docking permission
Three days after India granted docking permission, a US submarine sank the IRIS Dena off Sri Lanka on March 4, 2026, killing more than 80 sailors and pushing regional tensions further.
India's move stood out for its humanitarian approach and neutral aid: The Indian Navy joined the search-and-rescue effort and deployed aircraft and ships to assist; survivors were recovered by Sri Lankan authorities.
Iran thanked India for its support and "friendly relations," highlighting how New Delhi is trying to offer help without taking sides during a tense moment.