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US military strikes Iranian oil tankers after navy warships targeted
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- The U.S. military struck three Iranian oil tankers after Iranian missile attacks targeted U.S. Navy warships, warning it may destroy Iran’s limited oil fleet if necessary.
- Two Iranian oil tankers were permanently disabled and a third unladen tanker was destroyed; these vessels were reportedly part of a network funding Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and proxies.
- The strikes occurred near Kharg Island and the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically critical area for global oil shipments, amid ongoing conflict that resumed after a brief lull.
- The conflict follows failed negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program and increased U.S. economic pressure on Tehran, with both sides engaging in military and economic measures.
- U.S. Central Command emphasized defense of American forces and maintaining navigation through the strait, despite Iranian attempts to assert control and target vessels.
