US Launches Major Strike on Iran, Destroys Boats Near Strait of Hormuz

Tehran: The situation in southern Iran suddenly turned tense early Tuesday when the US military launched massive airstrikes targeting Iranian military bases and naval activities. American Central Command, i.e., CENTCOM, says that this action was taken for the safety of American soldiers and warships. America alleges that some Iranian boats were preparing to lay mines in the strategic sea route, the Strait of Hormuz.

Which targets did America target?

According to US officials, missile launch sites, naval bases and military equipment were targeted during the action. It was reported that the US military tried to eliminate the threats that were posing a risk to American ships and fighter planes under the “self-defense strike”. Officials claimed that two boats belonging to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, or IRGC, were also destroyed.

What happened in Bandar Abbas?

According to reports, America also attacked a surface-to-air missile system (SAM) site in Bandar Abbas area. The American side says that this missile system was trying to target American aircraft. In retaliation, heavy damage was caused to the missile launcher and its associated military structures.

Is this attack the beginning of a bigger war?

American officials have currently denied this. They say that the action was kept within limited scope and its purpose was not to increase tension. However, this entire incident has definitely increased the concern in the Gulf region. America made it clear that it does not want to take any kind of risk regarding the safety of its soldiers.

What was the situation in the area after the blasts?

There were reports of explosions being heard from many areas of southern Iran. Iranian media confirmed the blasts in areas such as Bandar Abbas, Sirik and Jask. These areas are considered very important strategically because oil is supplied to a large part of the world through the State of Hormuz. A senior American official later said that for the time being the military action is over, but the US military remains on full alert.

Considering the situation, this action is being monitored even at the international level. Experts believe that if the tension between the two countries increases further, it may also affect the global oil market and maritime trade. An official reply from Iran in this matter is still awaited.