US Military Strikes Iranian Oil Tankers in Persian Gulf
The US military has struck three Iranian oil tankers in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, according to a statement from the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The vessels, identified as M/T Downy, M/T Stark 1, and M/T Kylo (also known as Noxen), were allegedly part of a 'multibillion-dollar shadow network' used by the IRGC to generate revenue.
CENTCOM stated that two tankers, M/T Downy and M/T Stark 1, were struck off the coast of Kharg Island and near the southeastern port of Jask, rendering them inoperable. The third tanker, M/T Kylo, was hit in the Gulf of Oman after its crew was instructed to abandon ship.
According to CENTCOM, the tankers were targeted to prevent them from returning to service. The US military also alleged that a US aircraft carrier and guided-missile destroyer had come under Iranian attacks.