The United States military has destroyed three Iranian oil tankers in the Persian Gulf, following what it described as failed attacks by Iran. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it had permanently disabled the IRGC-controlled crude oil carriers M/T Downy near Kharg Island and M/T Stark 1 close to Jask, with a third vessel also neutralized in coordinated operations.

CENTCOM stated the action was carried out in self-defense and aimed at degrading the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) ability to transport oil, a key source of revenue for the Iranian government. The targeted vessels were reportedly involved in illicit oil exports that bypass international sanctions. The strikes come amid heightened tensions in the region, after Iran’s recent attempts to disrupt maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

These operations underscore the growing direct confrontation between U.S. forces and Iranian-backed assets, raising concerns about further escalation in the strategically vital waterway. Oil markets reacted cautiously, with modest increases in crude prices reflecting uncertainty over future supply disruptions.