Categories: WORLD

Strait of Hormuz: The United States takes major action against Iranian anti-ship cruise missiles; what is deep-penetration munitions?

The U.S. military has taken its first major step in trying to control the region Strait of HormuzCentral Command announced Tuesday. U.S. Central Command reported on X that forces had successfully used “multiple 5,000-pound deep-penetration munitions against Iranian missile sites on Iran’s coastline near the Strait of Hormuz.”

Map showing the Strait of Hormuz, Iran. (X/@nicksortor)

It went on to explain: “Iranian anti-ship cruise missiles at these locations pose a risk to international shipping in the strait.” They also shared a map of the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait of Hormuz has been blocked by Iranian forces since the war began and has been destroyed by U.S. and Israeli attacks IranSupreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Because of the blockade, ships fearing attack have not passed through the strait, severely disrupting maritime traffic and sending global energy prices soaring.

ALSO READ | There’s a Red Sea alternative to the Strait of Hormuz, but it’s not a straightforward solution: Why the Saudi-Yanbu route might not work

The action comes after President Donald Trump called on other countries to help the United States control the Strait of Hormuz. However, several countries, including European NATO partners such as Britain and Spain, have rejected the Republican proposals, refusing to be drawn into a wider conflict with Iran.

What is 5,000 pounds of deep penetration ammunition?

These are also known as “bunker busters” and in 2021, it is report The U.S. Air Force successfully tested the GBU-72/B bunker bomb. It is estimated to be a 30,000-pound weapon with a warhead weighing 5,000 pounds. according to Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington-based think tank.

These are used against hardened or deeply buried targets. Using bunker busters against Iran could help destroy their defenses along the Strait of Hormuz.

Prior to Operation Epic Fury, the U.S. military also used bunker busters during Operation Midnight Hammer against Iran in June 2025, targeting the Fordow uranium enrichment plant, the Natanz nuclear facility, and the Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center.

The U.S. action in Hormuz comes after Trump was furious with his NATO allies. “You would have thought they would have said, we’d be happy to send out a few minesweepers. It’s no big deal.” It doesn’t need to cost a lot of money. But they didn’t,” Trump said.

The president later added: “Realistically, we don’t need any help.” Meanwhile, Joe KentThe director of the National Counterterrorism Center announced his resignation, citing concerns about the legitimacy of a military strike against Iran. Kent said he “cannot in good conscience” support the Trump administration’s war.

(With AP input)

WEB DESK TEAM

Our team of more than 15 experienced writers brings diverse perspectives, deep research, and on-the-ground insights to deliver accurate, timely, and engaging stories. From breaking news to in-depth analysis, they are committed to credibility, clarity, and responsible journalism across every category we cover.

Recent Posts

Hantavirus outbreak: Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship; 40 passengers disembarked on South Atlantic island

About 40 passengers on a cruise ship affected by a deadly hantavirus outbreak disembarked on the remote South Atlantic island…

12 minutes ago

‘Sirf humama khada karna mera maksad nahi…’: Army’s clear message to Pakistan on anniversary of Operation Sindoor

Lieutenant General Rajiv Gay said on Thursday operation sindor Proving that “Atmanirbhar is not just a slogan, it is indeed…

31 minutes ago

‘Shocked and saddened’: Kohli mourns death of former teammate Amanpreet Gill

Amanpreet Singh Gill and Virat Kohli New Delhi: India and Royal Challengers Bangalore batting stars Virat Kohli Tributes to former…

32 minutes ago

Kash Patel vs. Chris Nanos: Everything FBI Director and Pima County Sheriff Say Amid ‘Friction’ in Nancy Guthrie Investigation

'Friction' breaks out between Pima County Sheriffs Chris Nanos and Kashi Patel This comes after the FBI director brought charges…

38 minutes ago

Hantavirus cruise ship outbreak: Two Britons self-isolate on MV Hondius amid exposure scare

Two British citizens may have been exposed to hantavirus on the MV Hondius and are currently self-isolating at home in…

42 minutes ago

There is life 2 meters below ground: Scientists discover hidden oasis of microorganisms beneath Chile’s driest desert World News

Beneath the bone-dry surface of Chile's Atacama Desert, scientists have discovered a functional microbial community that challenges our ideas about…

1 hour ago