US strikes Iran near Strait of Hormuz in first military action in a month

On Sunday, US forces conducted a military strike against Iranian rocket launchers positioned near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a US official. This marks the first instance of US military action against Iran within the past month. The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was in the process of launching rockets carrying sea mines into the strait when the US forces intervened.

Iranian media reported explosions near Larak Island, while the IRGC claimed several fighters and civilians had been killed or wounded. The IRGC's statement acknowledged the "martyrdom and injury of several of our fighters and compatriots" without specifying the exact number. The statement also threatened "punishment of the aggressor."

This attack came in the wake of US President Donald Trump's administration focusing on increasing economic pressure on Tehran rather than military action. Last week, Trump had warned Iran that any vessel attempting to lay new mines in the Strait of Hormuz would be destroyed. The last known US strikes on Iran occurred in late July, with fighting largely stalemated since then.

The administration has shifted its focus towards economic pressure and threatening to impose sanctions on nations that continue to engage in trade with Tehran.

The conflict between the US and Iran has now surpassed the six-month mark, resulting in thousands of casualties and millions displaced. Over 18 US service members have also lost their lives during this conflict. The disruptions caused by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, coupled with Israeli attacks in Lebanon, have severely impacted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Prior to the conflict, the strait facilitated the transport of about a fifth of the world's oil supply.