Attack on Iranian warship in Sri Lankan waters - Iran issues strong warning to America

Iran's military chief warns of retaliation for deadly US attack on warship off Sri Lanka.

Iran's military chief Amir Hatami has warned of "befitting response" to the attack on one of Iran's newest warships, the IRIS Dena, in the Indian Ocean that killed 104 crew members. The attack came as the ship was returning from a military exercise.

The crew of the destroyed Dena was returning to Iran after a peaceful mission when it was attacked, and the Iranian military chief added that the attack was carried out even though the sailors were not engaged in direct combat, Iran's IRNA news agency reported.

The name of the Dena ship and the sacrifices of its crew will forever remain a symbol of bravery and dedication in the history of Iranian naval forces, said Iranian Chief of Staff Amir Hatami. He added that Iran will continue to protect its maritime borders and strengthen its naval power with greater determination.