US Hits 5 Iranian Tankers as Iran Strikes US Base in Jordan

The conflict between the United States and Iran has entered another dangerous phase after U.S. forces destroyed five Iranian crude-oil tankers, prompting Tehran to launch ballistic missiles toward U.S. military forces stationed in Jordan.

U.S. Central Command said the five tankers were destroyed on September 8 after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attempted to strike a U.S. Navy warship with ballistic missiles on two occasions over the previous two days. The American warship reportedly avoided the attacks, and no U.S. personnel were injured.

Four of the tankers were struck in the Gulf of Oman, while another was hit near Iran's Kharg Island, a major hub for the country's crude-oil exports. U.S. officials said the vessels were associated with Iran's Revolutionary Guard. Crews were reportedly directed to leave the ships before the strikes.

Iran responded by launching ballistic missiles toward U.S. military positions near Al-Azraq in Jordan. Jordanian authorities said their air-defense systems intercepted 18 of the 20 missiles, while two landed in unpopulated areas. No casualties were reported.

The latest exchange is significant because Jordan hosts U.S. military forces and has increasingly become part of the wider regional confrontation. The strikes also demonstrate how the conflict is spreading beyond direct U.S.-Iranian military positions.

The escalation is creating fresh concerns for global energy markets. The Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz are critical routes for international oil shipments. Any prolonged disruption to shipping could put additional pressure on crude supplies and fuel prices.

Brent crude rose sharply amid the latest escalation, approaching the $100-per-barrel level. The possibility of further attacks on oil tankers or shipping routes has increased concerns among energy traders about supply disruptions.

The situation is becoming even more complicated as Iranian-backed Houthi forces have also attacked targets in Saudi Arabia, including energy-related infrastructure. Saudi authorities reported dozens of people injured in those attacks.

The latest developments point to a widening cycle of retaliation: U.S. attacks on Iranian-linked oil shipping, Iranian missile attacks on U.S. positions, and attacks by Iran-aligned groups against American allies. The biggest concern for governments and energy markets is whether the confrontation remains limited or develops into a broader regional war.

For now, there is no clear indication that either side is ready to end the military confrontation, leaving the region facing continued uncertainty over military escalation, oil supplies and the security of major shipping routes.

To Know more:https://youtu.be/df4oCtX8cKU