Tanker attacked as it tried to sneak through Hormuz via US-protected route hit after Iran vowed retaliation for sanctions

An oil tanker was attacked and disabled near the Strait of Hormuz overnight — as Iran vowed to retaliate against the US over the latest sanctions and economic threats slapped against the regime.The tanker was operating off the coast of Oman, where ships have been sneaking through the strait under US protection, when an unknown projectile hit the vessel, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).The blast damaged the ship’s engine room and left the tanker inoperable in the waters, but no casualties were reported.

While Iran did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack, Tehran has repeatedly targeted and hit ships trying to bypass its control of the Strait of Hormuz for months, with at least half a dozen ships struck in recent weeks, according to maritime analysts.At least 68 attacks on shipping vessels have been reported in the Persian Gulf and the waters around the Strait of Hormuz since the war began, with at least 20 seafarers killed and 35 others injured.Hours after the attack Iran and Oman — both of which border Hormuz — announced a proposed “temporary navigational corridor” that would clear sea mines allow safe passage for ships.

However, the statement also referenced “the provision of relevant navigational and security services” — Iran’s code for establishing toll system through for the vital waterway.The US has said charging ships for passage through Hormuz — which once carried one-third of the world’s oil — is a non-starter and illegal under international law.The latest strike came after Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh warned that the regime would take the offensive against its enemies after the US ramped up its economic pressures on Tehran on Monday.“Our enemies want to launch an economic terrorist attack against us,” state news agency IRNA quoted him.

“This time, they should not think that our approach will be defensive and that we will only defend ourselves.They should also expect an at...