US strikes Iranian platforms in Strait of Hormuz as Tehran retaliates against bases

Military escalations have further complicated the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz after the United States confirmed a "precision attack" against two Iranian platforms on Larak Island. Washington stated the targeted sites were preparing to deploy maritime mines. In response, Tehran launched retaliatory drone strikes directed at American military installations located in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates.

The escalation comes as maritime traffic through the strategic choke point remains severely curtailed, dropping from 95 to roughly 15 daily transits over six months. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei reiterated that full reopening remains contingent on Washington lifting oil sanctions, unfreezing assets, and halting military operations. Although Iran previously reported a technical agreement with Oman to map out a safe navigation corridor, active exchanges of strikes underscore ongoing volatility across the region.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, Jornal Económico, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal).