Images circulating on social media appear to show the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Iranian naval assets at a facility in Bandar Anzali on the Caspian Sea, with several vessels visibly damaged or destroyed at the port, The Caspian Post reports, citing Defence-Blog.

The Israel Defense Forces stated on March 19, 2026, that its Air Force, acting on naval and military intelligence, carried out strikes targeting missile boats and related infrastructure in the area.

These visuals offer the first open-source indication of the strike’s impact in the Caspian region-an area not previously linked to direct Israeli military operations. The footage shows damaged and partially submerged vessels, suggesting the ships were hit while docked, with the strike focused on neutralizing naval assets in port.

According to the IDF, the operation was conducted as part of its broader campaign, referred to as “Roar of the Lion,” and focused on Iranian naval capabilities linked to wider military activity. The military said the strikes were directed at missile-equipped vessels and supporting infrastructure, though it did not disclose specific platforms, weapons used, or the scale of the attack.

Based on analysis of the circulated imagery, at least two missile boats consistent with the Sina class appear to have been destroyed, along with the larger vessel Hamzeh. The Sina-class fast attack craft are equipped with anti-ship missiles and are used for coastal defense and rapid strike roles, while Hamzeh has functioned as a command and patrol vessel within Iran’s Caspian Sea fleet.

The IDF did not confirm specific vessel losses. However, the extent of structural damage visible in the images suggests that several of the targeted vessels are no longer operational.

Missile boats such as the Sina class are designed for high-speed operations in littoral waters, carrying anti-ship missiles capable of engaging targets at range. These vessels are typically used to patrol coastal areas and provide a rapid-response maritime strike capability. Striking such platforms while docked reduces the need for naval engagement and allows multiple assets to be targeted simultaneously.

The Hamzeh vessel, a larger platform adapted from a civilian hull, has served as a command ship supporting coordination and patrol missions. Damage to a vessel of this type can affect local command and control functions, particularly in a confined maritime environment like the Caspian Sea.