(AP) – The United States military says its latest strikes against Iranian forces were limited, precise, and aimed at protecting international shipping in one of the world’s most important waterways.
U.S. Central Command says American forces targeted Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces Sunday after they allegedly prepared to place new mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
The strait is a vital passage for global energy supplies and commercial shipping. Military officials say the operation was designed to prevent an immediate threat to civilian mariners and keep trade moving.
In a statement, Central Command said U.S. forces took “limited, precise action” against IRGC minelaying units that posed an imminent danger.
The command said Iran created the threat-and the U.S. military eliminated it.
Officials emphasized Tuesday that the American strikes followed what they described as Iranian aggression against commercial vessels and U.S. troops stationed in the region.
Central Command said its actions came after attempted attacks by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard against shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and against American service members.
On Sunday, the U.S. military also reported striking rocket launchers on Larak Island, a strategic location in the strait.
Iran responded by launching missiles toward U.S. facilities in Jordan. American forces intercepted the missiles, according to officials. The United Arab Emirates separately said it stopped an Iranian drone over its waters.
President Donald Trump has warned that additional action may be necessary to deter further attacks.
In a social media post Monday, Trump said the United States was striking targets near the Strait of Hormuz and made clear that Washington would respond forcefully to any Iranian retaliation.
Trump said that if Iran retaliates, it will be hit “at a much harder and higher level.”
The president called the American operation justified and warned Iranian leaders that a larger attack could still be waiting.
The administration’s message is that the United States is not seeking an open-ended conflict, but will defend American personnel, protect commercial shipping, and prevent Iran from threatening the global economy.
The renewed fighting follows roughly a month without reported military action between the United States and Iran.
As tensions rise, the State Department has issued a region-wide travel alert for the Middle East.
The department says the security environment remains complex, with the possibility of further escalation and travel disruptions. Americans in the region are being urged to remain vigilant and monitor local developments.
The advisory also warns that Iran and groups aligned with Tehran could target U.S. interests, businesses, institutions, and American citizens abroad.
U.S. embassies in Israel, Jordan, and Qatar have issued similar warnings to Americans in those countries. A virtual U.S. embassy serving Iran has also circulated the alert.
For now, American officials say their military response remains focused on specific threats-not the Iranian people-and is intended to restore deterrence, protect lives, and keep one of the world’s busiest shipping routes open.
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