Iran on Saturday accused the United States of attacking an Iranian tanker near Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf. The Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting reported that four U.S. missiles struck the vessel approximately six miles from the island. The report stated that the crew was being evacuated and that there were no casualties.
The Iranian report did not provide evidence, and Iranian officials have not yet commented. U.S. Central Command has not immediately responded to a request for comment.
Kharg Island serves as Iran's primary oil export terminal and is a strategically significant hub for the country's crude shipments. The area has been a focal point during the conflict between the U.S. and Iran, with U.S. strikes on military sites there occurring in March. This latest report follows days after the U.S. resumed strikes on Iranian targets after a month-long pause, amid intensified fighting around the Strait of Hormuz.
A new strike would escalate the risk of further Iranian retaliatory attacks against U.S. allies and interests in the region.