US military says it destroyed 3 Iranian oil tankers

The US military reported on Saturday that it had destroyed three oil tankers associated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) following Iranian aggression against American warships. The attacks came after Iran threatened ships passing through the vital Strait of Hormuz, which is a crucial waterway for global trade.

Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the IRGC's crude oil carriers M/T Downy off Kharg Island and M/T Stark 1 near Jask were disabled permanently. Additionally, the unladen crude oil carrier M/T Kylo was completely destroyed in the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM's video showed massive explosions after projectiles hit the ships. The three targeted vessels were part of a vast network that finances the IRGC and its regional allies, according to CENTCOM.

Iran reportedly has no defense for these ships, emphasizing the US's military superiority. No US personnel were injured during the operation, as a destroyer and aircraft carrier successfully avoided multiple unprovoked Iranian assaults. CENTCOM's commander, Admiral Brad Cooper, warned Iran that the strikes would lead to further economic consequences for the IRGC, stating, "If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost -- taking out three of yours."

The strikes highlight the ongoing tension between the US and Iran, with Washington continuing to economically pressure Iran while maintaining a military threat. Iran, in retaliation, has blocked commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that underscores the escalating conflict in the region.