Tehran: Tensions between the US and Iran escalated further after the US targeted three Iranian oil tankers, with Washington saying the vessels were linked to a “shadow network” allegedly financing Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said two of the targeted vessels were completely disabled while another was rendered inoperable. The ships were identified as M/T Downy, M/T Stark 1 and M/T Kylo.
According to CENTCOM, two crude oil tankers were targeted off the coast of Kharg Island and near Jask, while an empty vessel was attacked in the Gulf of Oman. The crews were reportedly evacuated safely.
Iran warns of tougher response
Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the US strikes, calling attacks on commercial vessels an “illegal and aggressive act”. Tehran warned that any further US attacks could trigger an even stronger retaliation.
The latest escalation comes amid growing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which a significant share of the world’s oil supplies passes.
The confrontation has fuelled concerns over potential disruptions to crude shipments and their impact on global energy markets.
US tightens pressure on Tehran
Washington has continued to increase economic pressure on Iran, including imposing fresh sanctions on a Turkish bank over alleged links to the IRGC.
With military strikes, sanctions and tensions over the strategic waterway continuing to mount, fears are growing that the US-Iran confrontation could escalate further.
Control and security of the Strait of Hormuz, uninterrupted oil transportation and the threat of further retaliation are now at the centre of the standoff between Washington and Tehran.
