Another tanker hit in Hormuz as US strikes Iran continue
According to international reports, the attack forced the crew of the tanker to abandon the vessel. The incident occurred in one of the world’s most important shipping routes for global oil and gas supplies. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed responsibility for the attack. It also claimed responsibility for two other attacks on ships in the same waterway a day earlier.
The latest attack came as the United States carried out another round of airstrikes targeting Iranian military command centres, missile launch sites, drone positions and air defence systems. US Central Command said American forces remain prepared to respond to any threats against civilian vessels passing through the strategic waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of the world’s oil and gas trade. However, shipping activity has slowed sharply as tensions between Iran and the United States continue to escalate.
The conflict has intensified despite diplomatic efforts to revive a ceasefire agreement that collapsed in recent weeks. Both sides have accused each other of escalating the crisis. The US State Department issued a fresh warning, saying Iran and groups linked to Tehran could target American interests and citizens in different parts of the world.
The growing conflict has also affected global energy markets. Brent crude oil prices have risen above $88 per barrel, while fuel prices have increased in several countries due to fears of supply disruptions.
Also Read: US oil reserves hit 42-year low as Iran tensions raise energy fears
Meanwhile, Kuwait and Jordan reported intercepting Iranian missiles, while Bahrain condemned drone attacks that it said had threatened civilian air traffic systems. The Pentagon said nearly 100 US service members have been injured since military operations resumed earlier this month. It added that most of the injuries were minor.
Adding to regional concerns, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels announced a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia and threatened shipping routes near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Amid the rising tensions, Iran’s Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, arrived in Pakistan for talks aimed at supporting diplomatic efforts and helping reduce tensions in the region.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remains open to negotiations with Iran but stressed that any future talks must be serious and meaningful. Iranian officials said at least 50 people have been killed and 517 injured in recent US airstrikes, highlighting the growing human cost of the ongoing conflict.
