US strikes Greater Tunb Island in the Strait of Hormuz

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that it carried out a comprehensive airstrike on the strategic, Iranian-controlled Greater Tunb Island, located at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. The operation, which took place today (July 15, 2026) and lasted approximately 90 minutes, targeted coastal defense systems and missile depots on the island. This move has escalated military tensions to their peak in the Strait of Hormuz, the most critical transit point for global oil shipments.

MILITARY BUNKERS TARGETED

According to a statement released via CENTCOM's official social media account (X), the pre-planned operation was carried out during the following time frame today:

The air operation began at 13:00 local time and was successfully completed at 14:30, lasting approximately 90 minutes.

In the attacks, which utilized precision-guided munitions, coastal defense systems stationed on Greater Tunb Island and military bunkers where Iranian cruise missiles were stored and deployed were directly targeted and destroyed.

CENTCOM: "THREAT TO COMMERCIAL VESSELS REDUCED"

In a statement issued immediately after the operation, the US military defended the rationale and purpose of the strike with the following words:

"This precision operation was conducted to further degrade Iran's ability to attack international commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and jeopardize maritime security."

WHY IS GREATER TUNB ISLAND SO IMPORTANT?

Greater Tunb Island, where the attack took place, holds significant potential for crisis not only militarily but also diplomatically:

The island acts as an outpost at the very entrance of the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil trade passes.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long claimed sovereignty over the island, which has been under Iran's de facto control since 1971.

While maritime security and military activity in the region are being closely monitored by global markets, there has been no official retaliation or statement from the Iranian side regarding the attack yet.

News Source: 12punto