Story perspectives

U.S. disables two Iranian oil tankers after missile attacks

9/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. forces struck three Iranian oil tankers on September 5 after Iran launched ballistic missiles at two U.S. warships.
The carrier and guided-missile destroyer evaded the missiles, and no American personnel were harmed.
U.S. forces disabled M/T Downy near Kharg Island and M/T Stark 1 near Jask.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry called the attacks illegal and aggressive.
Iran’s security council head announced the Qassem Basir solid-fuel missile can strike U.S. warships.

History

Historical Context

In April 1988, after the Iranian mine that crippled the USS Samuel B. Roberts on 14 April, the Reagan administration launched Operation Praying Mantis, the largest U.S. surface engagement since World II. U.S. ships and aircraft destroyed two Iranian oil platforms, a frigate, a fast-attack craft and two fighter jets, killing two Marine aviators. The strike helped push Iran toward the July 1988 cease-fire that ended the Iran-Iraq war.

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Story summary

U.S. forces struck three Iranian oil tankers on September 5 after Iran launched ballistic missiles at two U.S. warships.
The carrier and guided-missile destroyer evaded the missiles, and no American personnel were harmed.
U.S. forces disabled M/T Downy near Kharg Island and M/T Stark 1 near Jask.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry called the attacks illegal and aggressive.
Iran’s security council head announced the Qassem Basir solid-fuel missile can strike U.S. warships.

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