Iran latest: US tanker ‘on fire’ after attack as Tehran vows revenge for warship sinking
Iran Latest: US Tanker ‘On Fire’ After Attack as Tehran Vows Revenge for Warship Sinking
As the conflict enters its sixth day, both Israel and Iran have escalated their military actions, with a US oil tanker under fire and the UK’s first evacuation flight from Oman delayed. Updates continue to unfold.
Strikes Target Tehran
Residents of Tehran fled as smoke billowed from bombardments, capturing the chaos of the war’s sixth day. Despite the ongoing strikes, daily life in markets persisted, showing resilience amid the violence.
Iran’s internet infrastructure has been crippled, with connectivity at a mere 1% of normal levels, according to Netblocks. This blackout has lasted over 120 hours, complicating efforts to track developments on the ground in a nation of 93 million people.
UK Flight Delays
A UK-organized flight intended to rescue stranded citizens in the Middle East was grounded overnight due to operational issues. Home Office minister Alex Norris reassured Sky News that departures were expected today, with multiple additional flights planned.
“We know people are feeling stressed, but our team is on the ground supporting them,” Norris stated.
Passengers reportedly grew anxious, with some tapping on windows in frustration before being re-directed to the terminal. Correspondent Sally Lockwood in Dubai noted the plane remained on the tarmac for nearly two hours.
Iranian Response
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confirmed a strike on a US oil tanker in the northern Persian Gulf, leaving it ablaze. The attack highlights Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route, during wartime.
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the US for setting a “bitter precedent” after a submarine sank the warship Iris Dena near Galle. At least 87 sailors were reported dead in the incident.
Iran also deployed Arash attack drones targeting Israeli fuel depots at Ramat David Airbase. Meanwhile, Israel launched a coordinated assault on Tehran’s infrastructure, prompting air sirens in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Israel Adjusts Tactics
Despite intensified attacks, international correspondent Diana Magnay observed a slowdown in incoming fire across northern Israel. “The Israelis have eased home front command directives, allowing civilians to return to work,” she reported.
Officials emphasized the rapid pace of events, noting delays were temporary. “Things take time to organize, especially in a war with multiple fronts,” a spokesperson added.
