TEHRAN (HRNW): Iranian state media has reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) successfully targeted an American oil tanker in the northern Persian Gulf earlier today. According to a statement released by the IRGC’s naval wing, the vessel was struck by multiple missiles and was seen emitting heavy smoke as it caught fire.
The IRGC characterized the strike as a retaliatory response to recent “acts of aggression,” specifically pointing to the sinking of the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena by a U.S. submarine in the Indian Ocean yesterday. Iranian officials further asserted that they now maintain “complete control” over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global maritime chokepoint responsible for approximately 20% of the world’s oil and gas transit. They warned that any vessel linked to the United States or its allies attempting to pass through the waterway without authorization would be intercepted or targeted.
While Iranian state television has broadcast the claims, independent maritime monitors have yet to confirm the identity of the targeted vessel or the extent of the damage. Some reports from maritime security agencies suggest the explosion may have occurred near the coast of Kuwait, but the United States has not yet issued an official response to the IRGC’s claims. The incident has caused further volatility in global energy markets, with shipping firms increasingly suspending transit through the region due to the heightened risk of missile and drone attacks.
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