US Forces Strike Iranian Missile Launchers Near Strait of Hormuz

On August 28, 2026, US forces struck two rocket launchers on Larak Island, near the Strait of Hormuz, killing two people and injuring two others according to the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The US Central Command stated it was a "limited, precise action" in response to Iran preparing to deploy sea mines into the Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases in Jordan with missiles, which were intercepted by Jordan's army; Iran also claimed drone strikes on an air base in UAE, although UAE officials denied this and confirmed only shooting down a drone. This exchange marked the first direct military action between the two countries since late July 2026. The renewed conflict has caused oil prices to surge, with Brent crude increasing by 3.4% to $91.09 per barrel due to fears of ongoing supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.

By September 3, Iran reported that US strikes had killed an additional six military personnel, raising the total number of Iranian casualties from recent US attacks to at least 13. The conflict has also resulted in significant environmental damage and civilian deaths, with Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson highlighting the toxic impact on Persian Gulf waters.