The US military has attacked three Iranian oil tankers following what Washington described as multiple missile attacks against its naval forces. The strikes mark another major escalation in the ongoing US-Iran conflict, which has seen renewed fighting after a period of relative calm.
The Pentagon said an American aircraft carrier and a destroyer were targeted while operating in the region but avoided being hit. No US military personnel were reported injured.
What Happened To The Iranian Tankers?
The US military said it attacked three Iranian oil tankers at different locations near Kharg Island, Jask and the Gulf of Oman. Two tankers were badly damaged and can no longer operate, while the empty tanker was destroyed. The US said the ships were part of a secret oil network that helped Iran’s IRGC and groups supported by Tehran make money. US officials also warned that American forces could take more action against Iran’s oil ships if needed.
Iran Reports Attack On Tanker
Iranian media had earlier reported that an American strike hit an Iranian tanker near Kharg Island. Tasnim, a news agency affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, said the tanker crew survived and was being evacuated. Iranian state media later claimed that Tehran had attacked three oil tankers and three US vessels in retaliation.
The Iranian claim has not been independently confirmed.
US-Iran War Intensifies
The latest strikes come as the US-Iran war enters another dangerous phase. American and Iranian forces resumed attacks nearly a week ago following roughly a month of reduced military activity. Diplomatic efforts to end the conflict have also broken down, raising concerns that the confrontation could continue to widen.
A US strike in southern Iran earlier this week reportedly hit a wedding celebration, killing four people, including a child, according to Iranian authorities. US Vice President JD Vance was later asked whether an American attack was responsible for the deaths and responded that “sometimes things happen.”
Earlier Iran Strike Killed Schoolchildren
The renewed fighting has also revived scrutiny over a February 28 US strike in Minab that hit a school compound. At least 156 people, most of them children, were reportedly killed in the attack. A preliminary US military investigation reportedly attributed the incident to an error involving outdated coordinates that mistakenly linked the school to a nearby IRGC naval facility.
The Pentagon had said it was investigating the incident, but a complete report has not yet been publicly released.
What Happens Next?
The latest attacks could further complicate efforts to end the Iran war, particularly as both sides continue targeting strategic assets. The US has indicated that it is prepared to use military force against Iran’s oil network, while Tehran has continued threatening retaliation against American forces and assets in the region.
With diplomatic efforts stalled and attacks continuing, the targeting of Iranian oil tankers could become another major flashpoint in the escalating confrontation.
