Iran retaliates against US forces in Jordan after attack on Larak Island launchers

U.S. military forces reportedly attacked two Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island early this morning, prompting Iran to retaliate by striking U.S. military bases in Jordan with ballistic missiles. The incident took place near the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, a major global oil transit route, and marks a renewed escalation in tensions between the two nations. According to a U.S. official speaking to Reuters, the strike occurred after Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) personnel were observed preparing to launch rockets carrying sea mines into the strait. This action follows a recent U.S. operation to remove mines from the area, which had been blocked by Iran for months. The U.S. strike on Larak Island came just days after President Donald Trump declared a “Zero Tolerance” policy regarding mine placement in the region. He warned that any vessel attempting to lay mines in the strait would face immediate destruction. His comments were made public via his social media platform, Truth Social, and reflected a hardline stance toward Iran’s ongoing maritime obstruction efforts. In response to the U.S. attack, Iran launched ballistic missiles targeting two U.S. military installations in Jordan, King Hussein Base and Al Azraq Base. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed the strikes, stating they were conducted in retaliation for the U.S. assault on Larak Island. Iranian state media reported that the attack resulted in casualties among both Iranian personnel and civilians, though specific numbers were not disclosed. Tasnim News Agency, aligned with the IRGC, claimed a drone was used in the strike, resulting in two deaths and two injuries. The situation escalated further when the U.S. military confirmed the initial strike on Larak Island, citing intelligence indicating that IRGC forces were preparing to deploy sea mines into the strait. A U.S. official reiterated these claims during a press briefing, emphasizing that American forces continue to monitor the region closely and are committed to ensuring the uninterrupted flow of commercial traffic through the strait. This latest clash follows a period of relative calm since June, during which the U.S. had largely shifted its focus from direct military engagement to economic pressure on Iran. However, the recent developments suggest a return to more aggressive posturing from both sides. The U.S. has been asserting increased control over the strategic waterway, claiming success in moving large volumes of oil through the strait under military protection despite Iran’s ongoing blockade. Despite these claims, reports of attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz have persisted, with Iran maintaining that the waterway remains effectively closed. Previous incidents have seen Iran retaliate against U.S. strikes by launching missiles and drones at military bases in neighboring countries hosting American troops. The current situation appears to follow a familiar pattern, with each side responding to perceived threats with escalating measures. The U.S. government has also intensified its financial pressure on Iran through newly imposed sanctions aimed at crippling the country’s economy. These sanctions, dubbed “D-Day” by the administration, threaten secondary penalties against foreign entities and governments that engage in trade with Iran. Such moves come amid broader international efforts to isolate Iran economically and diplomatically, complicating the already tense relationship between the two nations. As the situation unfolds, the potential for further military confrontations remains high. Both the U.S. and Iran have demonstrated a willingness to escalate hostilities in response to perceived provocations. With the Strait of Hormuz continuing to serve as a flashpoint in their rivalry, the region remains on edge, awaiting the next move from either side.