The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified on Friday after an unidentified projectile struck a commercial tanker off the coast of Oman, leaving the vessel disabled and raising fresh concerns over maritime security in one of the world's busiest energy corridors. The latest incident came as US President Donald Trump warned that Washington was prepared to respond "very hard" against Iran, while reports suggested the US military was weighing additional strikes in the coming days.

According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the tanker was hit approximately 11 nautical miles northeast of Limah, Oman. The projectile damaged the vessel's engine room, leaving it without propulsion. Regional coast guard authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. No casualties or oil spill have been reported so far.

The attack adds to growing instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway through which nearly one-fifth of the world's crude oil supply passes. Maritime intelligence firm Kpler reported that vessel traffic through the strait dropped sharply, with only five ships transiting on Thursday compared to 22 the previous day, reflecting increasing concerns among global shipping operators.

Trump Signals Possible Military Escalation

Speaking during a Cabinet meeting, President Donald Trump reiterated that the United States remained prepared to intensify military pressure on Iran if necessary.

"We will be hitting them very hard," Trump said, expressing frustration over stalled diplomatic efforts. However, US defence officials indicated that military options remain under review and that no final decision has been taken regarding fresh strikes.

According to reports, the Pentagon has prepared multiple operational scenarios, including strikes targeting Iranian missile infrastructure and military facilities. However, officials continue to weigh the geopolitical and economic consequences of any expanded military campaign.

Iran Issues Strong Warning

Iranian officials responded by warning that any new American military action would trigger a broader response targeting critical US and Israeli infrastructure.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf claimed the country had emerged stronger from the ongoing conflict and stressed that Iran was prepared for future challenges. Tehran has maintained that it will continue defending its strategic interests while accusing Washington of escalating regional instability.

Middle East Conflict Continues to Widen

The broader regional crisis also showed no signs of easing.

In Lebanon, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned recent Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, describing them as a violation of the ceasefire agreement and Lebanese sovereignty. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun simultaneously announced plans to expand army deployment across southern Lebanon as Israeli forces gradually withdraw from certain positions.

Meanwhile, violence continued across the occupied West Bank, where Israeli military operations resulted in additional arrests during raids around Nablus. Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that several homes were searched and temporary military interrogation centres established during the operations.

Yemen's Houthi movement also claimed that its maritime blockade had forced several Saudi oil tankers to alter their routes, although independent verification of those claims remains unavailable.

Energy Markets Under Pressure

The continuing instability across the Gulf has kept global energy markets on edge. Analysts warn that prolonged disruption to shipping routes around the Strait of Hormuz could place further pressure on international oil prices, inflation and supply chains.

The latest attack on commercial shipping is expected to renew concerns among insurers and shipping companies already facing elevated security risks across the region.

With military activity increasing, diplomatic channels showing little progress and strategic waterways facing growing threats, the Middle East remains on high alert as the international community watches closely for the next developments.