U.S. Central Command Confirms Self-Defense Strikes in Southern Iran After Explosions Near Bandar Abbas

STRAIT OF HORMUZ — U.S. Central Command confirmed self-defense strikes in southern Iran on May 25 targeting missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines.

The statement followed explosions reported in Bandar Abbas and nearby coastal areas according to Iranian state-linked media.

Iranian state-linked Tasnim news agency reported three explosions specifically in Bandar Abbas on May 25. Fars news agency reported similar sounds near the coastal towns of Sirik and Jask.

The origin of the blasts remains unclear according to both outlets, and no official Iranian government statement has been issued as of May 26.

U.S. Central Command spokesman Capt. Tim Hawkins stated that U.S. forces conducted self-defense strikes the same day to protect troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. Targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines.

What to Watch

• Official Iranian government or IRGC statements on the May 25 explosions and any claimed casualties (monitor state media and Ministry of Foreign Affairs within 24-48 hours).

• Further CENTCOM updates on strike outcomes or additional threats (check centcom.mil).

• Commercial shipping advisories or AIS data for changes in Strait of Hormuz traffic.

• Reports of Iranian air defense activation in Hormozgan Province (cross-reference open-source flight tracking).

Official Statements

U.S. Central Command spokesman Capt. Tim Hawkins stated on May 25: “U.S. forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. Targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines. U.S. Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.”

Iranian Government: no public statement issued as of May 26; monitoring state media and Ministry of Foreign Affairs channels for any official response.