U.S. Forces Target Iranian Oil Vessels Following Alleged Attacks on Naval Ships

CAIRO — The United States military confirmed on Saturday that it had launched strikes on three Iranian oil tankers, in response to what it described as missile targeting of American Navy warships. The operation was accompanied by a stern warning that the U.S. would “if necessary, destroy Iran’s limited and exposed oil fleet,” as stated by U.S. Central Command.

According to the military, a U.S. aircraft carrier and a destroyer successfully evaded “multiple unprovoked Iranian attacks” during patrol duties in the region. No U.S. personnel were reported injured. The strikes resulted in two Iranian oil tankers being “permanently disabled,” while a third, unloaded vessel was destroyed.

The U.S. statement asserted that the targeted tankers were integral to a covert network financing Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its allied armed groups across the region. This came after Iran accused the U.S. of attacking one of its tankers near Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf.

Details from the U.S. indicate that one tanker was struck off Kharg Island, another near Jask, and the unladen ship in the Gulf of Oman. The military released video footage purportedly showing the strikes.

These actions mark a significant escalation, occurring nearly a week after the U.S. and Iran resumed hostilities following a brief lull in the ongoing conflict. The war, which began with U.S. and Israeli attacks on February 28, has seen both sides inflict military and economic damage, with negotiations having collapsed.

Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, emphasized the stance: “We will not hesitate to defend American forces, and if necessary, destroy Iran’s limited and exposed oil fleet.”

Source link