The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) says its forces struck three Iranian crude oil carriers on Sept. 5, in retaliation against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) which launched ballistic missiles toward two U.S. Navy warships patrolling regional waters.

CENTCOM made this known in a statement on its website, explaining that “A U.S. aircraft carrier and guided-missile destroyer successfully evaded multiple unprovoked Iranian attacks.”

It added that no U.S. troops were injured in the attack. “Following Iran’s failed attacks, CENTCOM permanently disabled the IRGC crude oil carriers M/T Downy off the coast of Kharg Island and M/T Stark 1 near Jask.

“American forces also completely destroyed the unladen crude oil carrier M/T Kylo (also known as the “Noxen”) in the Gulf of Oman, striking the vessel in multiple critical locations to render it inoperable after the crew was directed to abandon ship.”

The U.S. had destroyed Iran’s air capability, with the support of Israel during their air strikes that began on February 28, 2026.

According to CENTCOM, “The three Iranian crude oil tankers are part of a multibillion-dollar shadow network that funds the IRGC and its regional proxies. Iran has no means by which to defend them.”

CENTCOM commander, Adm. Brad Cooper said: “We will not hesitate to defend American forces, and if necessary, destroy Iran’s limited and exposed oil fleet.”