Massive U.S. Airstrikes Hit Iranian Missile Sites Near Strait of Hormuz, Threatening Global Shipping

The United States carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, using 5,000-pound bombs.

The strikes targeted missiles seen as a threat to ships passing through the strait, a key route for global oil trade.

The United States Central Command said multiple heavy munitions were used to hit fortified missile positions along Iran’s coastline.

These sites were believed to have anti-ship missiles that could target vessels moving through the strait. The aim was to reduce risks to international shipping.

Hours ago, U.S. forces successfully employed multiple 5,000-pound deep penetrator munitions on hardened Iranian missile sites along Iran’s coastline near the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian anti-ship cruise missiles in these sites posed a risk to international shipping in the… pic.twitter.com/hgCSFH0cqO

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 17, 2026

The Strait of Hormuz carries about 20% of the world’s oil, so any disruption can affect global markets. Recent images show ships waiting outside the strait instead of entering.

Some experts say the conflict could continue for up to two more months, which may impact oil prices and trade.

US officials are also looking at further options, including a possible operation on Kharg Island, an important Iranian oil hub. Around 5,000 US Marines have been deployed to the region.

The US is also coordinating with Israel, mainly through intelligence sharing.

Thousands of Iranian military targets have been struck by U.S. forces to neutralize threats posed by the Iranian regime now and into the future. pic.twitter.com/dE4VNxjjW1

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 16, 2026

Iran has warned ships about entering the strait and said the situation will not return to normal soon. Iranian Parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said conditions have changed.

A projectile was also reported near the Bushehr nuclear power plant, but no damage or injuries were confirmed, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.

For shipping, the risks remain high. Ships may have to take longer routes, increasing costs and travel time. Insurance costs could also rise. Even short disruptions in the strait can affect global oil supply.

Insurance premiums for ships operating in the area may also rise. Energy companies are watching closely, as even short-term disruptions in the strait can affect global oil supply.

References: firstpost, hindustantimes

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