Tehran, Iran
Tehran: Tensions between the United States and Iran appear to be rising once again in the Middle East. Reports have emerged of alleged retaliatory attacks by Iran following US military action. According to Iranian media, the naval forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted several ships and oil tankers in the Persian Gulf. Some of the vessels were reportedly claimed to be American ships.
The developments come after reports on Wednesday that US Central Command had destroyed five Iranian oil tankers. Iran was subsequently reported to have launched retaliatory action.
Several Ships Reportedly Targeted in Persian Gulf
According to Iranian media reports, the IRGC targeted around 10 vessels in the Persian Gulf, including two vessels reportedly identified as American. In addition, attacks were also reported against around 10 other ships in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz are among the world’s most important maritime trade routes. Any escalation of military tensions in the region could potentially disrupt oil supplies and international shipping.
However, independent details about the extent of the damage and the actual condition of the vessels remain limited. The claims made by Iranian media have also not yet been independently verified.
Missile Attack Reported on US Military Base in Jordan
Iran was also reportedly involved in a missile attack targeting a US military base in Jordan. According to Jordanian authorities, its air-defense systems intercepted 18 of the 20 missiles that were launched.
Jordan said the missiles were destroyed in the air, helping limit potential damage. The incident has further raised concerns about the security situation across the region.
Iran Had Already Issued Warnings
Amid the ongoing tensions, Iran had already issued warnings about its military capabilities and potential retaliatory actions. On Monday, Iranian state media claimed that the country’s new Qassem Bashir ballistic missile represented a shift in Iran’s military strategy.
Iran had also warned that it would not hesitate to take action against any perceived threat. The alleged retaliatory attacks reported after the US action are being viewed as part of the broader escalation between the two countries.
Reports of attacks on ships and oil tankers in the Persian Gulf have further heightened regional tensions. If the military confrontation between the US and Iran escalates, its impact could extend well beyond the Middle East, particularly affecting global oil supplies and international maritime trade.
