The operation came after Iran launched ballistic missiles at two U.S. Navy ships; strike near Kharg Island raises new concerns over global oil supplies
The United States struck three Iranian oil tankers on Saturday, marking another escalation in the conflict between Washington and Tehran.
According to U.S. Central Command, the operation came after Iranian forces launched ballistic missiles at two U.S. Navy ships. No American service members were injured.
One of the vessels was hit near Kharg Island, a strategically important area that handles a significant share of Iran’s oil exports.
Kharg Island returns to the center of tensions
The location of the strike is significant because Kharg Island is a critical part of Iran’s energy infrastructure.
The conflict had already been affecting the country’s oil exports. In recent weeks, Washington has increased economic pressure on Tehran through sanctions and restrictions targeting Iranian oil sales.
Iranian authorities confirmed the strikes on the tankers and said the crews were evacuated. No deaths from the operation had been reported as of Saturday.
Oil markets watch the escalation
The latest confrontation in the Gulf has renewed concerns about international energy routes, particularly because of the region’s proximity to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping corridors.
Brent crude reached $96.28 a barrel amid heightened tensions in the region.
The latest offensive comes after months of confrontation between the United States and Iran and once again places Iranian oil infrastructure at the center of the conflict.
Source: Reuters and U.S. Central Command
