U.S. Military Strikes Iranian Missile Sites Near Strait of Hormuz

On March 17, 2026, the U.S. military executed a significant airstrike against Iranian missile sites located along the coastline near the Strait of Hormuz. This operation involved the deployment of multiple 5,000-pound GBU-72 deep-penetrator bombs, aimed at neutralizing Iranian anti-ship cruise missiles that posed a threat to international shipping in this vital waterway. The U.S. Central Command (Centcom) confirmed that these missile sites had been a key factor in Iran's blockade of the Strait, which is critical for global oil transport, accounting for approximately 20% of the world's oil supply.

US military says hit Iran missile sites near Strait of Hormuz with '5,000-pound bunker buster' bombsNew York PostThe HillOnmanorama

The airstrikes are part of an ongoing military conflict that began on February 28, 2026, when the U.S. and Israel initiated operations against Iranian military capabilities. The Iranian regime has responded aggressively, utilizing mines, drones, and missile strikes to disrupt maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The situation has led to increased global oil prices, with reports indicating prices have surged above $100 per barrel due to these disruptions.

The Hill

U.S. officials, including Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of Centcom, stated that the military would continue to diminish Iran's capacity to threaten navigation in the Strait. In a video statement, Cooper emphasized, “Our progress remains steady, and we remain vigilant against the enemy.” Meanwhile, Iranian officials, including parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned that maritime traffic through the Strait would not return to pre-war conditions, indicating a long-term impact on international shipping.

New York Post

Critics of the U.S. military action have pointed to the potential for escalating tensions in the region. European allies have been hesitant to commit military resources to reopen the Strait, leading to frustration from U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, who has publicly criticized these allies for their inaction. Trump suggested that the U.S. might reconsider its military strategy in the region, questioning the role of non-responsive allies.

The Hill

While U.S. Central Command reported the successful targeting of Iranian missile sites, the exact impact of these strikes on the Iranian military's operational capabilities remains unclear. Additionally, there are discrepancies regarding the extent of the blockade's effect on oil supply and shipping routes, with some reports indicating that certain vessels have successfully navigated the Strait under Iranian permission.

US military says hit Iran missile sites near Strait of Hormuz with '5,000-pound bunker buster' bombs

As the conflict continues, discussions are underway among various nations regarding securing safe passage for their vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. is urging its allies to enhance military protection for shipping in the region, while Iran appears to be selectively allowing ships from friendly nations to transit the waterway. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing military operations and diplomatic negotiations expected in the coming weeks.

Onmanorama