U.S. Says Iran Plans to Disrupt Oil Trade

Officials Cite New Intelligence Pointing to Potential Attacks on Platforms, Tankers in Region; Tehran Is 'Very Unpredictable'

By JULIAN E. BARNES Updated July 19, 2012, 5:00 p.m. ET

WASHINGTON—U.S. government officials, citing new intelligence, said Iran has developed plans to disrupt international oil trade, including through attacks on oil platforms and tankers.

Officials said the information suggests that Iran could take action against facilities both inside and outside the Persian Gulf, even absent an overt military conflict.

The findings come as American officials closely watch Iran for its reaction to punishing international sanctions and to a drumbeat of Israeli threats to bomb Tehran's nuclear sites, while talks aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons have slowed.

Analysts say Iran, which denies it is developing nuclear weapons, may be looking for options to push back as it comes under growing pressure and finds its most critical ally, the Syrian regime, focused internally on its own struggle for survival.

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