Iran Launches Drone Strikes on US Military Ships in Gulf of Oman
Tehran has conducted drone attacks against US military vessels in the Gulf of Oman, according to a BBC report citing the Iranian semi-official news agency Tasnim. This aggressive move comes in direct response to a recent US Navy operation that intercepted an Iranian-flagged tanker attempting to breach an American naval blockade.
US Central Command Releases Images of Tanker Seizure
US Central Command has published new photographs detailing Sunday's daring raid on the Iranian tanker M/V Touska. Troops aboard the USS Spruance intercepted the vessel in the Arabian Sea as it sailed toward Bandar Abbas, after issuing multiple warnings. This marks the first known instance during the conflict where the US has fired upon a commercial ship.
Former US President Donald Trump commented on the incident via Truth Social, stating: 'Today, an Iranian-flagged cargo ship named TOUSKA, nearly 900 feet long and weighing almost as much as an aircraft carrier, tried to get past our Naval Blockade, and it did not go well for them.' He added that the Iranian crew refused to comply, leading the Navy to disable the ship by blowing a hole in its engine room. US Marines now have full custody of the vessel, which is under US Treasury sanctions due to prior illegal activities.
Iran Retaliates with Drone Attacks and Strait Closure
In retaliation, Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters—the nation's highest operational command unit—condemned the US operation as a violation of the ceasefire and pledged to retaliate for what it termed 'armed piracy by the US Navy.' Subsequently, the Islamic Republic announced on Saturday that it is once again shutting down the Strait of Hormuz to commercial tankers, warning that any approaching vessels will be targeted. There have been no immediate reports of damage from the drone attacks, but the situation remains highly volatile.
Global Oil Prices Surge Amid Escalating Tensions
The escalating military confrontations have triggered significant disruptions in global oil markets. On Monday morning, Brent crude futures surged by 4.74 percent to $94.66 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate increased by 5.6 percent to $88.55. These price hikes reflect growing concerns over potential supply chain interruptions through one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue Amid Fragile Ceasefire
Despite the heightened hostilities, diplomatic channels remain active. A US delegation, led by Vice-President JD Vance, is scheduled to travel to Pakistan for a new round of negotiations with Tehran. These talks aim to sustain the fragile two-week ceasefire that is now under severe strain due to the recent military exchanges. The outcome of these discussions could be pivotal in determining whether the region descends into further conflict or finds a path toward de-escalation.
