Washington: US forces struck two Iranian launchers on Iran’s Larak Island on Sunday, marking the first known American strikes on Iranian territory since late July, according to a US official.
The strikes come amid heightened tensions around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a major global shipping route.
US says launchers posed a threat
A US official said Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) forces had been observed preparing to launch rockets carrying sea mines into the Strait of Hormuz.
The official confirmed that US forces targeted two launchers on Larak Island. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that the operation involved a US drone strike.
The United States has recently focused on preventing the deployment of mines in the waterway, where any disruption could have significant consequences for international shipping and energy markets.
Iran warns of retaliation
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said the strike killed and wounded several soldiers and civilians and warned that Tehran would respond.
Iranian state media quoted an IRGC spokesperson as saying the United States would face consequences on both economic and military fronts.
The latest exchange marks a renewed escalation after several weeks of relative calm between Washington and Tehran.
Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation because of its importance to global oil transportation. US President Donald Trump had said last week that mines in international waters had been removed or detonated and warned Iran against placing new mines in the waterway.
The latest US strikes could further raise concerns about the security of shipping through the strait and the possibility of renewed military escalation in the region.