Recent exchanges between the United States and Iran have significantly escalated regional tensions, culminating in US strikes on Iranian oil tankers followed by an Iranian missile attack on a US base in Jordan. These events, occurring on Tuesday, September 9, 2026, have also driven a notable increase in global oil prices.
US Targets Iranian Oil Tankers
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed it struck five Iranian crude oil tankers located in the Gulf of Oman and near Iran's Kharg Island. These strikes were described as a direct response to alleged ballistic missile attacks by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on a US Navy warship over the preceding two days. CENTCOM reported that the American warship successfully evaded both Iranian attacks, continuing its operations without any US personnel injuries.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a warning, stating that Iran would face the loss of tankers for every attempt to target US naval vessels.
Iran Retaliates on US Base in Jordan
In a swift response, Iran launched a missile strike against a US base situated near Al Azraq in Jordan. Iran claimed its attack inflicted heavy damage on the facility. However, Jordanian authorities countered this assertion, reporting that their air defense systems intercepted the majority of the incoming missiles and confirmed no casualties among personnel.
This incident follows a previous strike in July that killed two US military personnel in Jordan, highlighting ongoing regional instability.
Regional Spillovers and Houthi Actions
The escalation extended beyond direct US-Iran confrontations. Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen launched a broad operation into Saudi territory, targeting a Saudi airbase in Khamis Mushait and various oil company assets in Abha, Najran, and Jazan. Satellite imagery reportedly showed significant smoke plumes over the Jazan refinery and an oil distribution center in Abha.
Saudi authorities reported blazes and 73 injuries, including women and children, making these among the largest attacks against Saudi Arabia since a conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran began in February.
Global Oil Prices Surge
The heightened geopolitical instability immediately impacted global energy markets. Brent crude futures surged by $1.57, or 1.6%, reaching $99.49 a barrel by 0001 GMT on Wednesday. US West Texas Intermediate crude also saw a rise of $1.60, or 1.72%, settling at $94.63 a barrel. This marked the fourth consecutive session of rising oil prices, reflecting investor concerns over potential disruptions to oil supply from the Middle East.