<p>The United States launched strikes at Iran on Sunday afternoon for the first time in over a month. The U.S. military targeted Larak Island after observing Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) forces preparing to deploy sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Capt. Tim Hawkins, spokesperson for U.S. Central Command.</p>
<p>The strikes hit two rocket launchers to protect the commercial shipping lane after the military completed clearing mines in the waterway last week. "U.S. forces are monitoring the area closely and remain prepared to protect the free flow of commerce through this essential waterway," Hawkins stated.</p>
<p>Control of the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a central point of tension between the U.S. and Iran since the conflict began in February. President Donald Trump has consistently stated that the U.S. controls the critical waterway, while Iranian officials have provided differing accounts regarding the usability of the global shipping route.</p>
<p>The strikes represent a return to military action after the Trump administration had focused on economic measures. The U.S. last struck Iranian missile and drone facilities on July 29. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced an “economic D-Day” on Monday, threatening secondary sanctions on companies and countries continuing to do business with Tehran.</p>
<p>Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed this plan to U.S. allies on Tuesday, stating that the U.S. would hold off on further strikes “for the time being,” according to Axios.</p>
<p>In response, IRGC forces stated that the strikes “will be answered by the sons of Iran and will result in the punishment of the aggressor.” The IRGC has targeted U.S. allies in the Middle East, including Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, in drone and missile strikes since the conflict began.</p>
<p>This is a breaking news story that will be updated.</p>