U.S. Central Command announced Sunday that American forces struck two Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island, a strategic outpost in the Strait of Hormuz. The strike, described by Capt. Tim Hawkins as the first U.S. attack on Iran in more than a month, targeted launchers that were observed preparing to fire rockets equipped with mines into the vital shipping lane.
Residents near the island reported hearing explosions, and Iran’s semi‑official Fars News Agency confirmed the incident. The Trump administration said the action was necessary to safeguard the free flow of commerce through the strait, a key conduit for global energy supplies.
Presidential Response and Ongoing Monitoring
President Donald Trump reiterated that Iran has been warned that any vessel deploying new mines will be “immediately and systematically destroyed.” He emphasized the administration’s resolve to protect American and allied interests in the region.
U.S. officials added that forces continue to monitor the area closely and remain ready to respond to any further threats. The White House referred CNN to Central Command for additional details.
Iranian Reaction
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps condemned the strike, labeling it a “strategic and deadly mistake” by the Trump administration and vowing retaliation. A spokesperson for the IRGC described the United States as a “U.S.-Zionist enemy” in a brief statement broadcast by state media.
Broader Context
The attack follows recent diplomatic talks between Iran and Oman aimed at restoring safe maritime traffic through the strait, with Qatar and other regional mediators supporting the negotiations. Last week, U.S. forces cleared sea mines from the international shipping lanes, and the administration has warned of new sanctions against any nation that continues economic ties with Iran.
President Trump has recently highlighted the administration’s strategy of applying economic pressure on Tehran rather than expanding military operations, asserting that U.S. financial strength will lead to a decisive victory over Iran’s malign activities.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
