Trump says US launches 'large and powerful' strikes near Hormuz

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that American forces are conducting strikes against Iranian targets near the strategic Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments — describing the operation as retaliation for attempted attacks on commercial shipping and US troops. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote: "The United States is, as we speak, striking Iranian Targets near the Strait of Hormuz," describing the bombardment as "large and powerful."

Retaliation for mining attempt

Trump characterized the action as payback for what he called Iran's "failed attempt" to plant sea mines in the waterway, as well as a recent missile barrage against a US installation in Jordan. He said eight missiles fired at the American base were successfully intercepted, and warned that any Iranian retaliation would prompt a far heavier response from Washington.

Warnings of escalation

The US leader issued a stark warning to Tehran against any counterattack, stating that further aggression would be met with overwhelming force. "If the failed Nation of Iran retaliates for this very justified attack, they will be hit again at a much harder and higher level," Trump said, adding that a larger operation was "waiting in the wings" and would leave "very little" of Iran.

Pentagon confirms operation

The US Central Command confirmed earlier on Tuesday that American forces had begun targeting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps inside Iran. The command said the strikes followed attempted attacks by the IRGC against commercial vessels and American service members deployed to the region, according to Anadolu Agency.