IRGC Claims Attack on U.S.-Owned Tanker in Gulf Amidst Rising Tensions

Tensions in the Persian Gulf escalated Thursday as Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced it had targeted a U.S.-owned oil tanker, the Safesea Vishnu, alleging the vessel ignored warnings. The incident occurred near Iraq, adding to a series of attacks on vessels in the region.

Details of the Alleged Attack

According to a statement carried by Iran’s Sepah News, the IRGC claims the Safesea Vishnu, flagged under the Marshall Islands, was struck after failing to heed warnings from the IRGC Navy. The IRGC warned that oil tankers and other vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz must adhere to traffic regulations to avoid being hit by stray projectiles .

Multiple Vessels Targeted

The alleged attack on the Safesea Vishnu is part of a broader pattern of incidents. Late Wednesday, multiple vessels were targeted in the Gulf near Iraq. The Marshall Islands-flagged Safesea Vishnu and the Zefyros, which had loaded fuel cargoes in Iraq, were set ablaze . Reports indicate a total of six vessels were attacked, potentially involving Iranian drone boats and sea mines .

Casualties and Rescue Efforts

One foreign crew member was recovered deceased from the water following the attacks. Iraqi rescue teams rescued 25 crew members from the Safesea Vishnu and the Zefyros, though fires continue to burn on both ships . An Indian crew member aboard a U.S.-owned crude oil tanker was killed near Basra, Iraq. The remaining 15 Indian crew members have been evacuated to a safe location .

Video Footage Released

The IRGC released video footage purporting to show the moment its forces struck a vessel in the Gulf . A major explosion struck the Safesea Vishnu, igniting a fire and producing thick black smoke .

Ongoing Tensions

These incidents occur against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions. The IRGC’s statement linked the attacks to what it described as “cruel US aggression” in the region, suggesting the insecurity is a consequence of U.S. Actions.