Tehran: The Iranian government has formally accused the United States of committing a war crime and deliberately obstructing rescue operations after the sinking of the Iranian Navy frigate Dena earlier this month.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated Tuesday that 104 sailors were killed when the vessel was attacked and sunk on March 4 near the coasts of India and Sri Lanka. The Dena was reportedly en route to participate in a joint naval exercise and port visit at the official invitation of the Indian Navy.

Allegations of Obstructed Rescue

In a statement posted to social media, Baghaei characterised the incident as a "brutal act" and a "grave violation of the laws of war." He specifically cited UN General Assembly Resolution 3314 and the Geneva Convention II (1949), alleging that U.S. forces not only initiated the attack but also actively prevented recovery efforts for the crew.

"The U.S. deliberately obstructed rescue operations for the sailors," Baghaei said. "The Iranian people will neither forget nor forgive this heinous crime."

Repatriation Efforts

The allegations come as recovery teams have successfully identified the remains of 84 sailors. Iranian officials confirmed that these bodies will be repatriated to Iran shortly, a process being facilitated with the cooperation of the Sri Lankan government.