What was the immediate impact of the attack on the USS Cole?

The attack on the USS Cole, which occurred on October 12, 2000, had significant immediate consequences. During the attack, a small boat filled with explosives detonated alongside the ship while it was refueling in the Yemeni port of Aden. This explosion caused considerable damage to the ship, creating a large hole in its side and leading to flooding in one of the engineering spaces.

As a result of the explosion, personnel on board the USS Cole suffered casualties, with 17 sailors killed and many others injured. The damage rendered the ship non-operational for a period, as repairs were necessary. This tragic event highlighted vulnerabilities in U.S. naval operations and marked a pivotal moment in the history of terrorism against America, leading to increased security measures.

The other options do not accurately reflect the situation; the ship was not completely destroyed, could not remain operational after the attack, and was not captured by terrorists. Hence, the choice highlighting the damage to the ship and the casualties sustained is the most accurate representation of the immediate impact of the attack.