US forces conducted strikes on Iranian rocket launchers near Larak Island after observing preparations to deploy sea mines into the Strait of Hormuz.
Key facts
- •US forces targeted Iranian rocket launchers on the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday.
- •The IRGC reported that the strikes on Larak Island caused both deaths and injuries.
- •US officials stated the action was taken after observing preparations to launch sea mines.
- •The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for roughly 25% of the world's seaborne oil trade.
- •The IRGC has publicly vowed to retaliate against the US for the strikes.
The US military carried out strikes against Iranian rocket launchers in the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first such action in the region in a month. According to a US official, the operation was launched after Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) forces were observed preparing to deploy rockets equipped with sea mines into the waterway.
Casualties and IRGC Response
The IRGC confirmed that the strikes hit Larak Island, resulting in casualties among both fighters and civilians. While the IRGC did not provide a specific death toll, they issued a statement vowing a retaliatory response to the attack. Reports from Iranian state broadcaster IRIB and the Fars news agency corroborated the occurrence of explosions near the island.
Strategic Context of the Strait
The Strait of Hormuz serves as a major energy transit chokepoint, typically accounting for approximately one-quarter of global seaborne oil trade. Earlier this week, US Central Command Admiral Brad Cooper stated that Iranian sea mines had been successfully cleared from the international shipping lanes. The waterway has been a focal point of tensions since Iran effectively closed it following US and Israeli strikes in late February.
Timeline
- Late February 2026Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz following US and Israeli strikes.
- Earlier this weekUS Central Command announced that sea mines had been cleared from international shipping lanes.
- SundayUS forces conducted new strikes on Iranian rocket launchers near Larak Island.
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