Two Supertankers Struck in the Strait of Hormuz as Tensions Rise Between Iran and the US
Oil prices surged after Saudi tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz were struck by missiles; while Iran called for negotiations, the US rejected the offer.
Two Saudi Arabian supertankers attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz were targeted by missiles during the night. Following the attack, oil prices rose, and diplomatic and military tensions escalated between Iran and the US.
Tanker Attacks in the Strait of Hormuz
Two crude oil supertankers belonging to Saudi Arabia were struck by consecutive missiles while passing through the Strait of Hormuz during the night. The incident occurred near the coast of Oman.
According to reports from tracking firms Kpler and Marist, the vessels departing from the Juaymah terminal became targets of near-simultaneous attacks.
Status of the Struck Vessels
It was reported that the first ship attacked was the Saudi-flagged very large crude carrier named Sidr.
Minutes after that vessel, the Liberia-flagged tanker Senegal Prosperity was struck by three missiles. It was announced that all crew members on both ships are safe.
Danger at the Critical Chokepoint
It was noted that the ships were attempting to stealthily navigate through the strait under American escort close to the Omani coast. The Islamic Republic has frequently reacted to these transits and targeted vessels in the region.
Experts emphasized that these recent events in the Oman corridor have further escalated the threatening environment.
Rise in Oil Prices
The latest tension experienced along the critical oil transit route immediately affected global markets.
While crude oil contracts increased by more than 2% on Tuesday, the price per barrel of international benchmark Brent crude reached $92.
Negotiation Offer from the Iranian President
Attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced that they are ready to return to the negotiation table with the US.
Pezeshkian stated that if the US returns to the terms of the June memorandum of understanding, Iran will respond immediately.
US Rejection of the Offer and Stern Warning
US President Donald Trump stated that he rejected Iran's offer to return to the terms of the agreement.
While the Washington administration emphasized that it will continue to apply economic pressure until the regime surrenders, Trump noted that a harsh response will be given to the attacks.