Intro: The attacks on vessels around the Strait of Hormuz raises fresh concerns over global energy supplies and international shipping routes
Dubai
US and Iranian forces exchanged attacks on vessels in waters around Iran on Saturday, marking an escalation in the conflict and raising concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. Central Command said forces struck three Iranian oil carriers, including one near Kharg Island, a hub for Iran’s oil exports. The strikes came after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched ballistic missiles at two U.S. Navy ships. No personnel were injured, according to Central Command.
Admiral Brad Cooper, who heads Central Command, said the response was intended to impose a greater economic cost on the IRGC. “If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost — taking out three of yours,” he said.
Iran’s IRGC threatened to intensify attacks on U.S. military vessels across the region. It also said its forces had targeted three tankers and three U.S.-linked vessels, accusing the ships of using unauthorized routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
Tasnim reported that four U.S. missiles struck a tanker near Kharg’s anchorage. Local sources cited by the agency said there were no casualties and that the crew was being evacuated.
The latest exchange follows escalating hostilities after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in February. The conflict has disrupted energy supplies and increased pressure on shipping routes vital to oil markets.
The confrontation also carries political risks in the United States, where opposition to the conflict has grown ahead of congressional elections in November.
BOX
US strikes Iranian tankers, IRGC vows retaliation
US strikes three Iranian oil carriers,
IRGC threatens intensified attacks on U.S. vessels,
Tanker hit near Kharg Island anchorage,
Strait of Hormuz faces fresh shipping risks.
