In this episode of What's Going on With Shipping, maritime historian and analyst Sal Mercogliano breaks down the latest statement and footage released by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announcing strikes against five Iranian-linked tankers in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman following attempted ballistic missile attacks on U.S. warships. Sal analyzes the tactical details of these strikes, dissects CENTCOM’s claims of vessels being "destroyed" versus disabled, and examines the dark fleet network funding the IRGC. In this video: ⚓CENTCOM's Official Statement: Overview of the U.S. strikes conducted on September 8, 2026, targeting IRGC-linked oil carriers following failed Iranian missile attacks on U.S. Navy warships. ⚓Targeted Vessel Breakdown: Detailed look at the 5 vessels involved—MT Derya (off Kharg Island), MT Horizon 1 (LPG carrier), MT Kaviz, MT Charminar, and MT Riesco (Gulf of Oman). ⚓Disabled vs. Destroyed: Analysis of strike footage showing targeted stern/steering compartment hits designed to disable loaded tankers while avoiding catastrophic environmental spills, compared to the probable destruction of the empty tanker MT Riesco. ⚓Abandon Ship Claims & Evidence: Assessing visual evidence regarding whether crews evacuated prior to strikes, including lifeboats remaining in davits and whether shore boats and tugs provided assistance. ⚓The "Dark Fleet" Shadow Network: How these flagged tankers (Palau, Comoros, and Zimbabwe) operate to move Iranian crude and finance regional proxies. ⚓What’s Next: A preview of the upcoming deep dive with Samir Madani from TankerTrackers analyzing oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Contact What's Going on With Shipping via: Patreon: www.patreon.com/wgowshipping Twitter: @mercoglianos Bluesky: @mercoglianos.bsky.social Facebook: @wgowshipping Email: mercoglianosal@gmail.com Marine Traffic www.marinetraffic.com U.S. Destroys 5 IRGC Tankers After Iran Targets Another American Warship https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PUBLIC-RELEAS