The U.S. military struck three Iranian oil tankers on Sept. 5 after Iran fired missiles toward two American warships. CENTCOM said its forces disabled two carriers near Kharg Island and Jask. American forces also destroyed another tanker in the Gulf of Oman.
The strikes followed what CENTCOM described as multiple Iranian attacks against a U.S. aircraft carrier and guided-missile destroyer. However, the American ships evaded the missiles, and no U.S. personnel suffered injuries.
U.S. Targets Iran’s Oil Network
CENTCOM said the tankers form part of a multibillion-dollar network supporting the IRGC and regional proxies. Moreover, the command warned that Iran’s exposed oil fleet could face further strikes.
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“Let the message to the IRGC be clear: If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost —taking out three of yours,” Adm. Brad Cooper said.
Additionally, fighting has intensified since the 60-day ceasefire expired last month. As a result, attacks have spread across Gulf states, including the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan.
Oil Routes Face Growing Risks
The attacks also put the Strait of Hormuz back in focus. Traders are watching for any disruption that could tighten oil supplies and lift prices. A prolonged squeeze could then add to inflation pressures across major economies.
That could also pressure risk assets, including cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin recently fell below $77,000 as renewed U.S.-Iran tensions pushed oil prices higher. Ethereum and major altcoins also declined during the broader risk-off move.
Bitcoin traded near $80,055 on Sept. 5, while Ethereum stood around $2,475. BNB gained 12.05% over the week.
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