Iran Intensifies Attacks on Gulf Energy Infrastructure Amid Regional Tensions

Tehran. Amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, concerns are rising across the region as Iran has reportedly intensified attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf. News has emerged of attacks on fuel storage tanks in Bahrain within the last few hours.  

Previously, on Wednesday, drone attacks targeted fuel tanks in the port city of Salalah. On the same day, a cargo ship was also targeted in the Strait of Hormuz. It is reported that three sailors remain missing in the incident, while the Omani Royal Navy's coast guard rescued 20 sailors.  

This incident reportedly occurred shortly after US President Donald Trump warned Iran against targeting ships or laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian side, however, claimed that the ship, flying the flag of Thailand, was targeted because it ignored their orders. Iran has warned that all ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz must obtain its permission.  

Iran has also warned the United States and its allies against using the strait. As approximately 20 percent of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow sea lane, the security situation there is expected to have a major impact on the global energy market. Crude oil prices in the global market have been experiencing sharp fluctuations in recent days as the conflict in Iran escalates. On Thursday, the price of the international benchmark for oil rose above $100 per barrel.