U.S. Central Command Conducts Self-Defense Strikes Against Iranian Naval and Missile Targets
On May 25, 2026, U.S. Central Command carried out targeted strikes in southern Iran to neutralize threats to maritime security. Operations focused on Bandar Abbas, Sirik, and Jask, destroying Iranian naval vessels attempting to emplace mines in the Strait of Hormuz and several missile launch sites. CENTCOM spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins described the actions as defensive measures to protect U.S. forces, emphasizing that the military continues to exercise restraint despite the collapse of recent ceasefire negotiations.