US strikes Iranian oil tankers; Tehran retaliates with Jordan strikes

The US military said it targeted five Iranian tankers after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps carried out two separate attacks on an American warship within a 48-hour period. The strikes marked an escalation in regional tensions between Washington and Tehran.

According to US military officials, the IRGC's dual attacks on the warship prompted the decision to strike the Iranian vessels. The operation underscored heightened military activity in one of the world's most strategically significant maritime zones.

In response, Iranian forces launched strikes against targets in Jordan, indicating a broader regional response to the American military action. The retaliatory strikes suggested an expansion of the confrontation beyond the initial focus on naval assets.

The exchange of strikes reflects the persistent tensions between the United States and Iran in the region. Both nations have maintained opposing positions on regional security and maritime activities, with each accusing the other of provocative actions.

The incidents add to growing concerns about potential further escalation in an already volatile region, where multiple international and regional powers maintain significant military presence.