U.S. Strikes Iranian Launchers on Larak Island

U.S. forces struck two Iranian launchers on Larak Island after detecting preparations by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to deploy sea mines into the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported, citing a U.S. official.

The official said IRGC forces were preparing rockets carrying sea mines when the U.S. military carried out the strikes. Iranian state media reported that several soldiers and civilians were killed or injured, while the Revolutionary Guards vowed a “response and punishment.”

The attack marks another escalation in the six-month Iran conflict and comes as tensions remain elevated around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports.

Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei separately called on Gulf and other Muslim countries to strengthen cooperation against what he described as their “real enemy.” In a written message published for Islamic Unity Week, Khamenei urged regional governments to identify common threats and improve mutual defence.

His appeal comes despite strained relations between Iran and Gulf states, some of which have faced Iranian attacks on U.S. military installations and infrastructure during the conflict.

Iran’s IRGC Intelligence Organization also accused its adversaries of conducting psychological warfare designed to weaken national stability. The organization said Tehran would target enemy command capabilities and networks it considers threats to Iranian unity.

Meanwhile, Iran continues to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Tehran was not rushing to reopen the waterway, while the IRGC maintained that it remained in control of the strategic passage.

Maritime risks are also increasing. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said a tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile near Khasab, Oman, on Saturday, although no casualties were reported.

Separately, Yemen’s National Resistance Forces reportedly intercepted a vessel in the Red Sea carrying Iranian military equipment intended for the Houthis, including components for attack drones.

Diplomatic efforts remain stalled as Iraq offers to mediate between Washington and Tehran while the Trump administration intensifies economic sanctions against Iran.