Iran fires retaliatory strikes following US attacks on Larak island in the Strait of Hormuz

US military strikes Iranian targets in Strait of Hormuz, prompting retaliatory Iranian missile attacks on US bases in Jordan

The United States launched precision strikes on Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps positions in the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, marking Washington’s first direct attacks inside Iran in nearly a month. The strikes targeted rocket launchers on Larak Island, a small but strategically vital Iranian outpost controlling access to the waterway through which 20 percent of global oil shipments once passed. Iran responded Monday by firing ballistic missiles at two US military air bases in Jordan, an act it described as retaliation for "Zionist-American aggression."

According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces conducted "limited, precise action" against IRGC minelaying teams that posed an imminent threat to shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation follows Washington’s announcement that it had completed clearing sea mines from international shipping routes in the strait. "US forces are monitoring the area closely and remain prepared to protect the free flow of commerce," said Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a CENTCOM spokesperson.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the US strikes caused casualties and vowed a "retaliatory response." Hours later, Iran launched eight ballistic missiles toward US facilities in Jordan. Jordan’s military reported intercepting all incoming missiles but did not specify their origin. Iran’s state media claimed the strikes caused "heavy damage" to two air bases used by US forces.

The exchange escalated tensions just days after the six-month anniversary of the US-Israel-led offensive that began on February 28. While fighting had appeared to subside in recent weeks, both sides have continued low-intensity clashes around the strait. Diplomats from Pakistan and Qatar have been mediating intermittent talks since April, when a temporary ceasefire was agreed. A memorandum of understanding toward a final peace deal was signed in June, but no durable truce has materialized.

Under the April ceasefire, the most intense fighting ended. However, sporadic attacks—particularly around the Strait of Hormuz—have persisted, complicating efforts to reach a lasting agreement. The US has since shifted strategy, emphasizing economic pressure over direct military confrontation. Washington has enforced a naval counter-blockade of Iranian ports, reducing petrol supplies in Iran amid domestic fuel shortages.

Oil markets reacted swiftly to news of renewed hostilities. Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose above $90 per barrel—the first time it had breached that symbolic level in over a month. During peak fighting in late spring, oil prices had briefly exceeded $120 per barrel, triggering global supply chain disruptions and price spikes in energy, fertilizers, and food staples.

This latest escalation follows a US strike on July 29 in response to an attempted surprise attack on American forces in the region. Earlier in July, CENTCOM conducted 13 consecutive nights of airstrikes against Iranian targets.

Throughout the six-month conflict, Iran has retaliated by targeting US facilities and allied installations across the Gulf. Iranian forces have struck locations in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman, drawing multiple regional actors into the conflict.

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