An Iranian tanker was struck by US forces near Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export hub in the Gulf, according to Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency. The report, citing local sources, stated that the tanker was hit by four US missiles in the anchorage area of Kharg Island. While there were no immediate official announcements from Iranian authorities, Tasnim indicated no casualties and the crew was being evacuated. This incident follows a social media post by US President Donald Trump on August 31, where he stated Kharg Island was being "blown to smithereens," and Iranian vows of a strong response to any attack on the island.
This alleged strike further escalates tensions in the region, which has seen intensified fighting around the Strait of Hormuz. The US had previously imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports after Iran effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supply. A US attack on Kharg Island, which previously handled 90% of Iran's crude exports, would significantly pressure Iran's already struggling oil industry and broader economy.
The incident comes shortly after the US resumed strikes on Iranian targets following a month-long pause. Previously, on September 1, the US conducted a large-scale operation hitting approximately 100 targets along Iran’s southern coast, including air-defense sites and anti-ship cruise-missile launchers. For the first time in the conflict, US forces also targeted two Iranian government tankers north of the blockade line, striking their engine rooms with drone-launched missiles. This new "tanker for tanker" policy, approved by President Trump, was implemented in response to earlier tanker attacks.
Oil markets reacted to the escalating conflict. Brent crude, which had already risen about 2.71% to $90.49 a barrel after earlier exchanges, jumped further to nearly $95 a barrel after the September 1 tanker strikes, reaching its highest level since late July. West Texas Intermediate also saw an increase of 2.47% to $85.46 a barrel during the same period. The ongoing conflict and its impact on oil supplies continue to drive volatility in global energy prices.
