Intelligence department reviewed by American officials showed that Iran was responsible for fresh attacks on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, a critical waterway for the transit of much of the world’s petroleum says US secretary of state Mike Pompeo.
Crude prices climbed as much as 4% after the attacks near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping artery for Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest oil exporter, and other Gulf energy producers. “If the waters are becoming unsafe, the (oil) supply to the entire Western world could be at risk,” said Paolo d’Amico, chairman of Intertanko tanker association.
Pompeo did not present any evidence of Iran’s involvement when announcing the findings at a news conference in Washington. The assertion is certain to fuel tensions between the Trump administration and Iranian leaders that have increased since early May, when the White House announced military movements in response to what American officials have said is a heightened threat from Iran.
Pompeo said the sabotage against the two tankers was only the latest in a series of recent violent acts by Iran. “Taken as a whole, these unprovoked attacks present a clear threat to international peace and security,” he said.
Iran responsible for fresh attacks on 2 oil tankers in Gulf of Oman: US blames
