Trump talks of victory while Iran hits tankers

The conflict between Iran on one side and the United States and Israel on the other continues to escalate and is affecting the global energy market. According to security sources, Iran set fire to two tankers in Iraqi waters, while attacks were also directed at other commercial ships in the Persian Gulf. Fuel tanks in Bahrain were also hit.

Tehran has warned that the world should prepare for oil prices of up to $200 per barrel, arguing that security in the region has been seriously disrupted.

The war broke out after joint US and Israeli air strikes on Iranian targets and has claimed at least 2,000 lives in less than two weeks. UNICEF warns that more than 1,100 children are among those injured or killed.

The tension is also reflected in the markets, with oil prices rising again and investors fearing supply disruptions, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil passes.

The International Energy Agency has therefore recommended a record release of strategic reserves. The US plans to make 172 million barrels available.

Despite this, President Donald Trump claims that the United States has essentially won the war.

(reuters, pir)