U.S. military forces have conducted strikes against Iranian oil tankers near Kharg Island and the Strait of Hormuz, according to multiple military sources. The operation, authorized by President Donald Trump, is part of an economic strategy aimed at squeezing Iran's economy by disabling its crude oil tankers.
The strikes, which were first reported by Fox News, targeted tankers off Kharg Island, a major oil export hub, and near Jask, an area on Iran's southern coast close to the Strait of Hormuz. These actions follow a similar round of strikes last week, during which three Iranian oil tankers were reportedly sunk or disabled.
This military action comes as American consumers are experiencing 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 from the previous year. Gas prices surged to a record high over the Labor Day Weekend, a period when many Americans travel.
These rising costs present a political challenge for the Trump administration and Republicans ahead of the midterm elections in November. The cost of living and affordability have become key concerns for voters, and the ongoing conflict with Iran has reportedly dampened enthusiasm for the Republican party.
President Trump had previously stated that gas prices would decrease significantly once the conflict concluded. The current retail prices, however, have not yet reflected this forecast, creating a point of contention for the administration.