US and Iran Trade Strikes After IRGC Targets American Warships in the Gulf

The US and Iran engaged in overnight maritime skirmishes after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched ballistic missiles at two American warships. In response, US Central Command stated it targeted three Iranian oil tankers—identified as the Kylo and Stark I in the Gulf of Oman, and the Downy near Kharg Island—which it described as part of a shadow network funding the IRGC and its regional proxies.

Centcom reported that the Kylo sank following the strike after its crew was ordered to evacuate. Released US military footage displayed the vessel listing heavily prior to sinking, while shipping data confirmed the ship was unladen at the time. "Let the message to the IRGC be clear: if you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost – taking out three of yours," stated Centcom chief Admiral Brad Cooper.

Iranian state media reported that four US missiles struck a tanker near the Kharg Island anchorage, resulting in no immediate casualties and a successful crew evacuation. Iranian outlets also noted explosions near the island, prompting a US confirmation of the strike on the Downy. Concurrently, the IRGC cautioned commercial traffic against unauthorized navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, threatening action against vessels exhibiting suspicious movements.

Further escalation followed as the IRGC claimed additional strikes on three tankers and three US-linked vessels, though these claims remain unverified. On Sunday, the IRGC asserted it targeted a US aircraft carrier and guided-missile destroyer, claims unconfirmed by Washington. Shipping activity through the strait has dropped significantly, with US President Donald Trump noting that Washington is assisting up to 40 vessels nightly while shipowners largely detour around the chokepoint.

President Trump has warned Iran of potential further military action, following his recent posting of an AI-generated video depicting the destruction of Kharg Island. In response, Iranian officials promised a firm retaliation against any assault on the island. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi engaged in diplomatic talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding regional stability and security in the strait.