US Strikes Three Iranian Oil Tankers in Escalating Middle East Tensions
The United States and Iran have engaged in a new round of military clashes in the Middle East. According to US Central Command, American forces struck three Iranian oil tankers, including one near Kharg Island, after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched ballistic missiles at two US Navy ships.
Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, said that the US would impose an even higher economic cost on Iran if it continued to attack American vessels. In response, the IRGC threatened intensified strikes against US military vessels in the region.
The exchange of attacks has escalated tensions between the two countries, which have been at odds since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran in February. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies, remains closed due to ongoing disputes.