The US struck three Iranian oil tankers after the IRGC attacked two American warships

United States forces struck three Iranian oil tankers on Saturday after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched ballistic missiles at an American aircraft carrier and a destroyer. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that the military vessels evaded the attack, which it described as unprovoked, while the US operation took place amid tensions over control of the region’s oil routes.

According to CENTCOM, the M/T Downy and M/T Stark 1 tankers were permanently taken out of service, while the M/T Kylo, also known as Noxen, was destroyed in the Gulf of Oman after the crew was evacuated. The US military maintains that the three vessels were part of a clandestine network financing the IRGC and its allied groups.

Before the strike on the Stark 1, a US military aircraft allegedly transmitted warnings to the crew and gave them ten minutes to evacuate. An audio recording confirmed by CNN captures the final warning, followed by a crew member’s request to halt the attack.

Tehran has not yet issued an official response. Iranian state media had previously reported that the United States attacked a tanker near Kharg Island, which handles approximately 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports. The incident heightens risks for the Strait of Hormuz, a vital point for global energy supplies.**slug**: us-strikes-three-iranian-oil-tankers