US disables three Iranian tankers following missile strikes on warships in the Persian Gulf

US Central Command reported that American forces disabled or destroyed three Iranian crude oil tankers following ballistic missile attacks on US Navy vessels in the Persian Gulf. Two ships were permanently disabled: the M/T Downy near Kharg Island and the M/T Stark 1 near Jask. The third vessel, the M/T Kylo (Noxen), which was carrying no cargo, was destroyed in the Gulf of Oman after its crew abandoned ship. CENTCOM stated that US aircraft carrier and guided-missile destroyer patrolling regional waters evaded multiple attacks without personnel injuries. Admiral Brad Cooper declared Washington would increase economic costs if American forces are attacked again. The vessels were described as part of a high-revenue network for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and allied groups. Iran disputed the account, claiming its forces targeted three oil tankers and three American vessels, but this claim could not be independently verified. An Iranian spokesperson warned that attacks on US warships would intensify if Washington continues interfering with Iran.