US Strikes Three Iranian Oil Tankers in Retaliation for Attacks

The United States military launched strikes against three Iranian oil tankers on September 5, in response to Iranian attacks on US Navy ships. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) targeted the M/T Downy off the coast of Kharg Island, the M/T Stark 1 near Jask, Iran, and the unladen crude oil carrier M/T Kylo (also known as the 'Noxen') in the Gulf of Oman.

The motor tanker Kylo was completely destroyed, and its crew were told to abandon ship, according to CENTCOM. The three tankers are part of Iran's shadow fleet, which is largely defenseless without a navy or air force.

Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander, stated that the strikes were in retaliation for Iranian attacks on a US aircraft carrier and guided missile destroyer. He emphasized that if Iran shoots at US ships, the US will impose an even higher economic cost by targeting their oil tankers.