U.S. forces struck three Iranian crude oil tankers on Saturday after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched ballistic missiles toward two U.S. Navy warships, marking another major escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.
According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), an American aircraft carrier and a guided-missile destroyer successfully evaded multiple Iranian missile attacks while operating in regional waters. No U.S. personnel were injured.
Three Iranian Tankers Targeted
CENTCOM said American forces responded by targeting three crude oil carriers linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
Two tankers were permanently disabled — one near Kharg Island, Iran’s critical oil export hub, and another near Jask. A third tanker, which was not carrying cargo at the time, was destroyed in the Gulf of Oman after its crew was directed to abandon the vessel.
U.S. officials said the vessels were part of a network used to generate revenue for Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and its regional allies.
CENTCOM Sends Strong Warning
CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said the United States would continue defending American forces and warned that attacks on U.S. military vessels could bring additional economic consequences for Iran.
The latest confrontation comes amid renewed military activity between the United States and Iran following a period of relative calm.
Iran Threatens Stronger Response
Iran responded by warning that attacks against U.S. military vessels in the region could intensify if American actions against Iranian shipping continue.
Iranian media reported that the crew of the tanker struck near Kharg Island was evacuated and that no casualties were reported.
Kharg Island is especially important to Iran’s energy sector, historically handling the vast majority of the country’s crude oil exports.
Oil and Strait of Hormuz Back in Focus
The latest escalation is likely to increase concerns surrounding global energy supplies and shipping through the region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important energy routes, making any escalation involving Iran, U.S. forces and oil infrastructure closely watched by global markets.
With both Washington and Tehran warning of further action, attention is now focused on whether the latest exchange will trigger another round of military retaliation.
USA Pulse will continue monitoring developments as more information becomes available.