CENTCOM rejects IRGC claim of strikes in Strait of Hormuz as ‘act of aggression’

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) dismissed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) allegations that US strikes on its forces were an "act of aggression" as "absolutely false." In a post on X, CENTCOM explained the US forces had conducted "limited, precise action" against IRGC minelaying forces that posed an "imminent threat" in the critical Strait of Hormuz.

Iran alleged that US strikes on Larak Island, which resulted in casualties, were part of a broader retaliation for recent economic sanctions imposed by the US. CENTCOM asserted that the strike targeted IRGC minelaying forces that threatened civilian mariners, commercial shipping, and global trade movement.

The US military cited its action was aimed at preventing potential harm in the strategically vital waterway. Iran's IRIB claimed that the US attack, which had wounded and killed personnel, occurred in two waves, and that sounds from Sirik were due to Iranian defensive measures. Iran's IRGC spokesperson, Hossein Mohebbi, denounced the US action as a "grave blunder" and vowed retaliation in economic and military spheres.