Oil Tanker Struck in Strait of Hormuz After U.S. Sanctions on Iran

An oil tanker was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, disabling the vessel, hours after the U.S. announced new sanctions against Iran. The attack's cause remains under investigation, with Iran as the likely suspect. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center reported the incident northeast of Ash Shishah, Oman, stating the crew was safe. The strike followed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's announcement of "Operation Economic Outcast," a plan to impose secondary sanctions on countries trading with Iran, targeting sectors like shipping and oil. Iran dismissed the sanctions as ineffective, warning of consequences. The attack underscores ongoing regional instability, as Houthi rebels also struck a Saudi tanker in the Red Sea. U.S. strategic petroleum reserves have fallen to their lowest level since 1982 amid the conflict.