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Tanker Attack Escalates Gulf Conflict
Iran struck and set ablaze the Kuwaiti-flagged oil tanker Al Salmi at Dubai port's anchorage.
“Iran attacked and set ablaze a fully loaded crude oil tanker anchored at Dubai port”
All 24 crew members were reported safe, and Dubai authorities extinguished the blaze.
The attack came hours after Trump warned he would obliterate Iran's energy plants if the Strait of Hormuz remained closed.
Trump Signals Willingness to End War
Trump signaled willingness to end the war without reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
He set a diplomatic deadline of April 6.
Leavitt said talks with Iran were progressing.
Oil Prices Surge on Supply Fears
The Al Salmi was carrying around 2 million barrels of oil.
“Oil tanker off Dubai hit by Iranian strike”
Oil prices surged over 2.9% on news of the attack.
The spike has become a political headache for Trump.
Regional Role Shifts to Europe, Gulf States
Trump decided the US should achieve its main goals and then proceed diplomatically.
He pressed allies in Europe and the Gulf to take the lead.
Iran's Parliament approved a plan to impose tolls in the Strait of Hormuz.