The launchers were being prepared to fire rockets capable of carrying sea mines into the strategically important waterway, according to US officials. The US-Iran conflict has entered a potentially more dangerous phase after American forces struck two Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) rocket launchers on Larak Island near the Strait of Hormuz. The attack followed efforts by American forces to clear mines from the main shipping route through the strait.
A Washington Post report said senior commanders raised concerns about extending some force commitments in the August 14 Secretary of Defence Orders Book. Some US forces in the Middle East were reportedly ordered to remain deployed through September, while certain commitments could extend into 2027.
US officials said Washington viewed the Iranian launchers as an immediate threat to maritime traffic. The report said commanders of US European Command, Pacific Command and Southern Command, along with the Navy’s top admiral, recorded “non-concurs” over some extensions. Sea mines could disrupt commercial shipping, force vessels to take alternative routes and trigger wider security and economic consequences.
What happens next?
On August 24, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced Operation Economic Outcast, targeting Iranian financial networks and revenue sources linked to the regime. Washington is also increasing economic pressure.
