According to a report by Reuters on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Iran said a missile struck a U.S. oil tanker in the Persian Gulf.
State media reported that the attack, carried out by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, caused the vessel to catch fire.
Iranian state television said the missile hit the tanker in the northern part of the Persian Gulf, but there has been no independent confirmation of the strike, and U.S. authorities have not yet verified the incident.
Iran claimed it now maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and gas transport, stating that its forces can monitor activity in the passage.
The development follows a recent dispute between Iran and the U.S. over another maritime incident. Iran’s foreign minister accused the United States of attacking an Iranian naval ship far from Iranian waters.
According to the minister, the vessel was operating in international waters, participating in friendly naval cooperation with around 130 sailors on board, and was struck without warning.
U.S. officials have not responded directly to the allegation, and military authorities have not confirmed any attacks on Iranian ships in the South Asia region.
Tensions in the Middle East have been rising, with military threats exchanged between Iran, the United States, and Israel causing concern among international observers.
World leaders are urging calm and calling on both sides to avoid further escalation, warning that continued hostilities could spread conflict across the region.