U.S. Targets Iranian Oil Tanker as Trump Pushes for Peace Deal

The U.S. military attacked an Iranian oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on May 6, 2026, aiming to pressure Iran into negotiating a peace deal. The Islamic Republic stated it was reviewing the latest American proposals.

A U.S. fighter jet damaged the tanker’s rudder as it tried to break through the American blockade around Iran’s ports. This occurred despite an official ceasefire between the two sides. President Trump warned that if no deal is reached, including opening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. would intensify its bombing campaign.

Trump claimed on social media that the war could soon end, allowing oil and gas shipments to resume, but only if Iran accepts a proposed agreement he did not detail. Meanwhile, Israel carried out strikes in Lebanon’s southern suburbs for the first time since a ceasefire with Hezbollah was announced earlier.

Iranian officials have reportedly shown interest in ending the conflict, though they strongly rejected earlier U.S. proposals. The White House believes it is close to finalizing a one-page agreement that would halt Iran’s uranium enrichment, lift sanctions, release frozen funds, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz for shipping.

The economic impact of the strait’s closure has been severe, with fuel prices soaring and global trade disrupted. China, a key ally of Iran, called for a comprehensive ceasefire and urged both sides to avoid further conflict.

Hundreds of merchant ships remain stranded in the Persian Gulf, unable to navigate through the dangerous Strait of Hormuz. The situation has cost shipping companies millions weekly due to increased costs and limited alternate routes.

Trump is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping later in May to discuss the ongoing crisis.