Iran war latest: Iranian oil tanker targeted in US strike, says state media

Iran accused the United States of attacking an Iranian tanker near Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf on Saturday. The U.S. has not yet commented on the incident, but a new strike may escalate tensions and provoke Iranian retaliation against U.S. allies and interests in the region. Meanwhile, in Yemen, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels blamed the government for killing three people in an attack and Israeli strikes left three individuals injured in southern Lebanon.

Here is an overview of the latest Middle Eastern developments. For comprehensive coverage, visit the provided link. Iran claimed the U.S. launched four missiles against its oil tanker, approximately six miles from Kharg Island, though it did not offer evidence or statements from Iranian officials. The U.S. Central Command declined to comment on the matter.

Kharg Island serves as Iran's primary oil export terminal and a crucial hub for the nation's crude shipments, having faced multiple strikes during the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict. The latest report comes after the U.S. restarted strikes on Iranian targets following a month-long hiatus, as fighting near the Strait of Hormuz has escalated.

Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen accused their government of killing three individuals during airstrikes in Hodeida and Taiz provinces. The attacks transpired on Friday in the Jarahi district of Hodeida and Taiz, following Yemen's military claim of over 15 strikes on the Houthis near these fronts. In Hodeida, a father and daughter perished in an attack on their residence, while in Taiz, a man was killed and another injured by shelling, according to the Houthis' al-Masirah satellite news channel.

These incidents occur as fighting in Yemen intensifies near a vital supply route. Israeli strikes in Lebanon resulted in the death of three people and injury of nearly twenty others. The strikes targeted Hezbollah positions in response to a drone launched by the group at Israeli forces south of Lebanon. The drone was intercepted without causing harm to Israeli soldiers.

The Israel-Hezbollah conflict began in February when Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel following the start of U.S.-Iranian war on February 28. Israel subsequently occupied a significant portion of southern Lebanon, with Hezbollah opposing direct peace talks between Lebanon and Israel.