Iran has intensified its retaliatory campaign against regional energy infrastructure, striking two foreign oil tankers in Iraqi territorial waters in the latest escalation of the Middle East conflict.
The vessels, which were carrying Iraqi fuel oil, were reportedly hit by projectiles, triggering fires aboard both tankers and raising fresh concerns about the safety of maritime energy routes in the region.
Officials said rescue teams pulled dozens of crew members from the ships, while search operations continued for those still unaccounted for. The attacks occurred near Iraq’s southern ports, prompting calls from Baghdad for stronger international protection of vital shipping lanes.
The strikes form part of a broader Iranian campaign targeting oil transport and shipping infrastructure across the Middle East, a move that has heightened fears of disruptions to global energy supplies.
Rising tensions have already shaken energy markets, with oil prices climbing above $100 per barrel amid concerns that continued attacks on tankers and shipping routes could further constrain supply from the Gulf region.
Analysts warn that unless safe passage for oil shipments through key maritime routes is restored, the conflict could trigger deeper instability in global energy markets.
