Iran Speedboats Attack Tanker
Iranian speedboats attacked a tanker Friday that passed within five miles of the Iran’s military stronghold of Farsi Island, but the ship escaped with minor damage as an American missile frigate raced to its aid.
“No assistance was required” when the Robert G. Bradley reached the 85,989-ton Sea Victory, a Liberian-registered tanker, in international waters, a U.S. Navy spokesman said.
U.S. officials said the warship could not have defended the tanker close to the island because Navy “rules of engagement” allow intervention only in international waters, and the United States recognizes a 12-mile limit around Farsi.
A radio report from the tanker’s Greek captain said the speedboats attacked three times, making “lots of holes,” starting a small fire and slightly wounding the first mate.
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