In brief
U.S. forces say they have permanently disabled or destroyed three Iranian oil tankers after ballistic missiles were launched at two U.S. warships in the Gulf of Oman and Strait of Hormuz. CentCom claimed it avoided several attacks from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and that no American troops were harmed. The strikes come a week after escalating tensions that included U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran and Iranian retaliatory attacks on Gulf allies. U.S. Admiral Brad Cooper warned Iran of the high economic cost of shooting U.S. ships, promising further retaliation if needed.
US targets three Iranian oil tankers after missiles threaten US warships
The U.S. military has confirmed striking three Iranian‑linked oil tankers following ballistic missiles launched toward two of its warships in the Gulf.
Centcom said the first ship was permanently disabled near Kharg Island, the second was disabled near the Strait of Hormuz, and a third was completely destroyed in the Gulf of Oman.
The command reported it successfully evaded multiple attacks from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) aimed at its aircraft carrier and guided‑missile destroyer, with no American casualties.
Iranian state media earlier noted one of its tankers had been hit by U.S. missiles off the coast of Kharg Island.
Admiral Brad Cooper warned the IRGC that if they target U.S. vessels, “we will impose an even higher economic cost – taking out three of yours.” He added, “We will not hesitate to defend American forces, and if necessary, destroy Iran's limited and exposed oil fleet.”
The strikes follow recent escalations where the U.S. and Israel launched broad attacks on Iran, prompting Iran to retaliate against U.S. bases and allied Gulf states, effectively blocking the Strait of Hormuz to merchant shipping.
