Sri Lankan authorities rendered medical assistance to 40 Iranian sailors docked near Galle's southern harbor on Saturday after a distress call.
The sailors, whose vessels were unknown to Sri Lankan officials, were ferried to shore by ships arranged by the Iranian Embassy and local shipping agents.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Thushara Rodrigo said the crew received initial treatment before being flown back to Tehran early Sunday.
Galle's coast guard confirmed the operation ran smoothly, noting the sailors' gratitude and the rapid coordination between Sri Lankan and Iranian representatives.
The incident echoes earlier maritime exchanges, with Sri Lanka hosting Iranian vessels for diplomatic and commercial purposes for years.
Maritime authorities will review the response protocol, and both governments have pledged to strengthen cooperation on maritime safety.