By Chris Pleasance for MailOnline
Published: 07:58 BST, 15 May 2019 | Updated: 08:03 BST, 15 May 2019
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Major General Chris Ghika, deputy commander of anti-ISIS forces in Iraq and Syria, said he sees no increased Iranian threat
A British commander of anti-ISIS forces in Iraq and Syria has seen 'no increased threat' from Iran despite the US insisting the country is behind attacks on its allies.
Major General Chris Ghika, deputy commander of Operation Inherent Resolve, told reporters that he was monitoring Iran and its proxy forces but had seen no reason to adjust his stance towards them.
Ghika's remarks seemed to be at odds with US claims that Iran and Iranian-backed Houthi rebels were behind attacks on two Saudi oil tankers and pumping stations.
There are fears that America is squaring up for direct conflict with Iran after two carrier groups were deployed to the Arabian Gulf.
Ghika denied that his remarks were out of step with Washington, though US Central Command later issued a rare rebuke to an allied military officer.
The general's remarks 'run counter to the identified credible threats', a spokesman said, adding: 'As a result, (the coalition) is now at a high level of alert as we continue to closely monitor credible and possibly imminent threats to U.S. forces in Iraq.'
Norwegian oil tanker Andrea Victory, one of the four damaged boats, pictured with a large dent in its stern on Monday morning
Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said attacks on the pipeline (file picture)
