The United States has conducted airstrikes on Larak Island in southern Iran, marking the first direct attack on the country since late July. This escalation comes as the conflict between the two nations enters its seventh month, with both sides employing military and financial strategies to gain the upper hand.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the attack, stating that several soldiers were killed and injured. In response, the IRGC vowed retaliation, declaring that “This act will be responded to by the sons of Islamic Iran and will result in punishment of the aggressor.”
Strikes target strategic launchers in the Strait of Hormuz
A US official revealed that the strikes targeted launchers intended to fire rockets carrying mines towards the Strait of Hormuz a critical waterway for global oil shipments. The US has been asserting control over the strait, claiming to manage the passage of millions of barrels of oil despite Iran’s blockade.
However, daily attacks on ships in the Hormuz have been reported, and Iran maintains that the strait is closed. The recent strikes demonstrate the US’s willingness to use military force, even as it focuses on imposing sanctions to pressure Iran over its nuclear program and claims of control in the region.
Financial pressure and military readiness
In recent weeks, the Trump administration has intensified efforts to isolate Iran financially, threatening secondary sanctions against countries and companies doing business with Tehran. Despite this financial pressure, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has emphasized that the US remains prepared to use military force if necessary.
US officials have been highlighting what they describe as Iran’s loss of control over the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that the country is on the verge of economic collapse due to sanctions and the military blockade against its ports. However, Tehran has remained defiant, stressing its preparedness for a prolonged conflict.
Energy markets and economic implications
On Saturday, Iranian official Abbas Araghchi dismissed reports that the US is successfully exporting large amounts of oil from the Strait of Hormuz. He stated, “Our intelligence shows major efforts to game energy markets. US Govt elements use gullible media to influence prices for personal gain and keep [Trump] mired in a losing war.”
Despite claims of the US ending Iran’s control over Hormuz, oil prices have remained high due to supply uncertainty. The average price of one gallon of petrol in the US is still over $4, up from less than $3 when the conflict began in February. These skyrocketing energy prices, which are fueling inflation in the US, could impact the upcoming midterm elections in November.
