Saudi oil attacks an 'act of war' by Iran, not Yemen rebels, Pompeo claims

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Tension with Iran continues to simmer as Pompeo says US backs Saudi Arabia's 'right to defend itself,' Trump raises sanctions
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Thursday that the United States backs Saudi Arabia's "right to defend itself" following last weekend's attack targeted the heart of its oil industry. On Wednesday, Pompeo described the attack as an "act of war" as President Trump said he had ordered Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to “substantially increase sanctions” on Iran, amid escalating tensions between the two countries. Pompeo's latest comments came on Twitter as came as he was in Jiddah, Saudi Arabia, after meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's defense minister.

The Saudis on Wednesday displayed missile and drone wreckage and cited other evidence they alleged shows the raid was "unquestionably sponsored by Iran." Iran has denied involvement in the attack and warned the U.S. it will retaliate immediately if it is targeted.

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