The United States Navy has launched a missile at an oil tanker bound for Iran, marking a significant escalation in the Persian Gulf. The incident occurred this morning approximately 50 nautical miles off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. According to a statement from the US Fifth Fleet, the tanker, registered under the Panamanian flag, failed to respond to warnings after deviating from standard shipping lanes.
The missile, a precision-guided munition, struck the vessel's engine room, disabling it but causing no reported casualties. The tanker was reportedly carrying crude oil from Iraq, though its ultimate destination remains unconfirmed. The UK Foreign Office has issued a warning that the action risks further destabilising the region.
A spokesperson described the situation as extremely concerning and urged restraint from all parties. The move follows weeks of heightened tensions over Iran's nuclear programme and its seizure of commercial vessels. Iran's Revolutionary Guard has condemned the strike as an act of state piracy.
The UN Security Council is expected to convene an emergency session later today. Analysts are divided on whether this represents a targeted interdiction or a broader shift in US naval policy in the Gulf.
