U.S. military forces have conducted strikes against Iranian oil tankers near Kharg Island and the Strait of Hormuz, according to multiple military sources.
These strikes, which targeted multiple vessels, are part of a broader economic strategy aimed at pressuring Iran's economy. The operation specifically includes disabling Iranian crude oil tankers to diminish the government's revenue from its oil reserves. The attacks occurred near Kharg Island, a key oil export hub, and Jask, a coastal area close to the Strait of Hormuz.
This is not the first time U.S. forces have targeted tankers in the region recently. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced similar military actions last week, during which three Iranian oil tankers were sunk or disabled. These actions were described as part of an effort to disrupt a network funding Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its regional proxies.
The recent strikes come as American consumers face significantly higher gasoline prices. The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the U.S. has reached $4.15, an increase of nearly a dollar compared to the previous year. Gas prices reached a record high over the Labor Day Weekend, impacting holiday travel for many Americans.
President Donald Trump has previously spoken about his intention to lower gas prices, stating that they would fall once the conflict concludes. The current high cost of living and affordability issues are significant concerns for voters and could impact the upcoming midterm elections, particularly as the war in Iran has been a point of contention.
Global oil prices have also seen an uptick, with Brent crude oil hovering around $99 per barrel, its highest level since late July, amidst the renewed hostilities.