Iran latest: US tanker ‘on fire’ after attack as Tehran vows revenge for warship sinking
Iran Latest: US Tanker ‘On Fire’ After Attack as Tehran Vows Revenge for Warship Sinking
On the sixth day of the conflict, both Israel and Iran have escalated their military actions. A US oil tanker was damaged in a strike, igniting flames, while the UK’s initial effort to evacuate stranded citizens from the Middle East encountered setbacks. The first chartered flight from Oman did not depart as scheduled, according to a Home Office minister.
Stranded Britons Face Uncertainty
News correspondent Emma Birchley reported that British nationals trapped in the region are enduring significant anxiety. “Individuals have faced immense stress while awaiting their return home,” she explained, emphasizing that the government’s assistance has yet to result in any departures.
“We are six days into this, yet no British nationals have been able to leave, with the government’s support,” Birchley stated.
A UK-chartered flight was delayed overnight due to “operational issues,” as noted by a Home Office minister. Birchley added that passengers described the situation as frustrating, with some expressing doubt about the progress.
Internet Blackout Hinders Ground Reports
With Iran’s internet connectivity at just 1% of normal levels, over 120 hours of disruption have made real-time updates challenging. Despite the bombardment, markets in Tehran continued to operate as usual, with residents fleeing smoke from strikes.
News of the US submarine’s attack on the Iranian warship Iris Dena near Galle has left at least 87 sailors dead. The vessel, currently just beyond Sri Lanka’s territorial waters, is seeking permission for an emergency port call, though the government has not yet confirmed its stance.
Escalating Attacks and Evacuation Efforts
Sky News received accounts from passengers waiting for the delayed flight, who described the plane remaining on the tarmac for over an hour. “People were growing agitated, even panicking, and pounding on the windows before being sent back to the terminal,” a passenger recounted.
“We expect the flight to depart today and anticipate additional departures shortly,” said Alex Norris, addressing the ongoing evacuation efforts.
As Israel’s strikes on Tehran continued, Iran retaliated with its own offensive, targeting US and Israeli positions. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched the 19th phase of the “True Promise 4” operation, combining missiles and drones to strike northern Persian Gulf assets, as reported by state broadcaster Press TV.
Sri Lanka’s cabinet confirmed its commitment to “safeguard lives” on another Iranian ship near its coast, following the warship’s sinking. A parliament member noted the vessel is requesting an urgent port call, with the government considering a precedent set during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 for similar circumstances.
