Iran latest: US tanker ‘on fire’ after attack as Tehran vows revenge for warship sinking
Iran Latest: US Tanker Hit, UK Flight Delay as Tehran Vows Retaliation
As the conflict enters its sixth day, Israel and Iran have escalated their strikes, with a US oil tanker struck in the northern Persian Gulf and a UK-chartered flight from Oman failing to depart last night. The situation continues to evolve rapidly.
UK Flight Delays
A UK government-arranged flight to evacuate stranded Britons in the Middle East encountered delays overnight, according to a Home Office minister. The official noted that the plane was grounded for over an hour and a half, causing anxiety among passengers.
“We expect it to leave today, with multiple additional flights following,” said Alex Norris, who emphasized the government’s efforts to assist those affected.
Internet Blackout in Iran
Communication challenges persist in Iran, where internet connectivity has been nearly wiped out. Netblocks reports an outage exceeding 120 hours, leaving the country’s 93 million residents with just 1% of normal access.
Iranian Military Response
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched a coordinated strike targeting US and Israeli positions. State media reported a drone and missile operation that damaged a US oil tanker, which is now ablaze. The attack underscores Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade route.
Separately, the Iranian military deployed long-range Arash attack drones toward Israel, striking fuel depots at Ramat David Airbase. These actions mark a shift in Iran’s strategy, combining missile strikes with aerial assaults.
US Submarine Attack on Iranian Warship
Yesterday, a US submarine sank the Iranian warship Iris Dena in the Indian Ocean, near Galle. At least 87 Iranian sailors were confirmed dead. The incident has intensified tensions, with Iran warning of severe consequences.
Israel’s Strategic Strikes
Israel announced a “large-scale wave of attacks” on Tehran’s infrastructure, intensifying bombardments. Meanwhile, a UK-chartered flight was delayed, with passengers expressing frustration as they waited on the tarmac.
“People are getting quite agitated, panicked, and banging on the windows before being sent back to the terminal,” reported Sky News correspondent Sally Lockwood in Dubai.
International Developments
Sri Lanka has pledged to protect lives on an Iranian vessel off its coast, following the warship’s sinking. The nation’s cabinet remains unclear whether the vessel was intentionally targeted. Meanwhile, Diana Magnayis, based in northern Israel, noted a reduction in incoming fire, allowing civilians to resume daily routines with less disruption.
