US Attacks Iranian Oil Tanker Amid Escalating Tensions in Strait of Hormuz
US forces have attacked an Iranian oil tanker near Kharg Island, one of Iran's main oil export terminals and key hub for crude shipments. According to state-run Fars news agency, several explosions were heard nearby after the attack.
The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently stated that Iran's oil export lifeline was being cut off, with crude accumulating aboard vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. He also said no Iranian oil shipments had crossed the Strait of Hormuz to China since the blockade was reinstated.
The attack comes after a recent American strike targeting several air defense systems, radar installations and maritime assets along Iran's southern border. Tehran retaliated with drone and missile strikes against US bases in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan.