Oil storage facilities hit in Oman’s Salalah port

MUSCAT: Oil storage facilities at Oman’s Salalah port were struck by drones, according to British maritime security firm Ambrey. Oman TV reported that fuel tanks at the port were hit, though there were no reports of damage to merchant vessels.

At the same time, Iranian officials warned they would not allow oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz to the United States and its allies. They cautioned that escalating tensions could push global oil prices as high as $200 per barrel after at least three ships were struck by projectiles early Wednesday.

Ebrahim Zolfaqari, spokesperson for Tehran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military command headquarters, said Iranian forces could target US vessels in the region. He blamed Washington for destabilising regional security, warning that such actions could significantly drive up oil prices.

Earlier this week, crude oil prices climbed to $119.48 per barrel, the highest level in nearly four years, before easing to around $90. Despite the drop, prices remain well above levels seen before the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran in late February.

Zolfaqari had already warned earlier in the week that oil could reach $200 per barrel if US actions against Iran continue. Speaking on Iranian state television, he said prices would surge if what he called “cowardly and inhumane actions” persisted.

Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday that Americans would see oil and gas prices fall quickly once the conflict with Iran ends. Iranian officials, however, have maintained that the country will not yield to President Donald Trump’s repeated demands.