US Targets Iranian Oil Tankers After Ballistic Missile Attack on Navy Ships
US military forces struck three Iranian oil tankers on Saturday in response to Iran's launch of ballistic missiles towards two US Navy ships, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The attack was part of a larger effort by CENTCOM to deter Iranian aggression and protect American interests in the region.
The targeted vessels included M/T Downy, which was off the coast of Kharg Island, and M/T Stark 1 near Jask. A third vessel, M/T Kylo, was also destroyed in the Gulf of Oman. The crew of the Kylo had been directed to abandon ship before the US strike.
CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper said that the US would not hesitate to defend its forces and take out Iran's oil fleet if necessary. He stated, 'If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost, taking out three of yours.'