Blinken says US ‘confident’ that Iran behind attack on Israeli-linked ship

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says the Biden administration is “confident” that Iran was behind a deadly attack on an Israeli-operated merchant ship near Oman, joining Israel and Britain in blaming Tehran for the strike.

In a statement, Blinken says the attack was carried out using explosive drones.

“There is no justification for this attack, which follows a pattern of attacks and other belligerent behavior. These actions threaten freedom of navigation through this crucial waterway, international shipping and commerce, and the lives of those on the vessels involved,” he says.

The top American diplomat adds: “We are working with our partners to consider our next steps and consulting with governments inside the region and beyond on an appropriate response, which will be forthcoming.”