Washington: The United States carried out targeted airstrikes on coastal missile installations in Iran in a bid to ensure the continued flow of maritime traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, officials confirmed.
According to the United States Central Command, the operation involved the use of heavy bunker-busting munitions against fortified sites believed to house anti-ship missile systems. These weapons, positioned along Iran’s coastline, were assessed to pose a direct threat to commercial vessels navigating the narrow waterway.
Military officials stated that the targeted installations were capable of launching cruise missiles designed to strike ships transiting the strait, raising concerns over global energy security and trade routes. A visual map released by the command outlined the locations where the strikes were conducted.
The latest action comes amid heightened tensions in the region and follows a proposal by Donald Trump to form a multinational naval coalition aimed at keeping the passage open. However, the plan reportedly received limited support, with several key allies—including members of NATO as well as countries like Japan, Australia and South Korea—hesitant to participate.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow corridor between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most critical energy transit chokepoints. Any disruption in this region can have immediate repercussions on global supplies of crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas.
Analysts warn that continued military activity in the area could further escalate tensions and increase risks for international shipping, even as the US maintains that its actions are aimed at preserving freedom of navigation and regional stability.
