US Strikes Iranian Oil Tankers Amid Escalating Regional Conflict
The United States has launched strikes against three Iranian oil tankers, including one near Kharg Island. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that the tankers were part of a 'shadow network' that funds the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its regional proxies.
The CENTCOM statement revealed that the tankers, Downy, Stark 1, and Kylo (also known as Noxen), were hit in the Gulf of Oman after directing their crews to abandon ship. The US forces disabled the tanker Downy near Kharg Island, while the Stark 1 was targeted near Jask.
The recent attacks have raised fears of fresh escalation in the conflict, which has been ongoing for several weeks. Kharg Island is a crucial terminal for Iran's oil exports, accounting for the majority of its exports before the current trade disruptions due to the conflict.