The US military conducted strikes on Iran’s Larak Island on Sunday, targeting two rocket launchers that were reportedly preparing to launch mines into the Strait of Hormuz, according to a spokesperson for US Central Command, Capt. Tim Hawkins. Residents near Larak Island reported hearing an explosion. The island is situated close to the Strait of Hormuz, a significant global shipping route that has been a focal point of regional tensions.
Last week, US Central Command completed the removal of sea mines from international shipping routes in the waterway. President Donald Trump stated that Iran has been warned that any vessels laying new mines would be destroyed. A US official noted that US forces are closely monitoring the area to ensure the free flow of commerce.
In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps condemned the attack, labeling it a “strategic and deadly mistake” and claiming it resulted in casualties among Iranian forces and civilians. The IRGC accused the US of acting as a “US-Zionist enemy.”
The strikes occurred amid ongoing discussions between Iran and Oman regarding maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, with support from regional mediators such as Qatar. This incident marks the first US military action against Iran since July 29, when the US conducted a series of strikes following an attempted attack on American military positions. The White House has indicated that there are currently no negotiations between the US and Iran concerning the ongoing conflict. Recently, Trump has emphasized increasing economic pressure on Iran, asserting that financial strength will lead to significant victories. The US Treasury Department has warned of new sanctions on nations that maintain economic ties with Iran.