Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have made a significant announcement regarding their military capabilities in the Gulf, unveiling new missile systems designed to target what they describe as “enemy bases, vessels, and assets.” These systems are now deployed on three strategically important islands—Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa—located near the key shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil transit.
The deployment comes on the heels of military maneuvers conducted by the Guards in the region, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to enhancing its defensive and offensive capabilities. Alireza Tangsiri, the naval commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), shared details of the weaponry, claiming that the new missile systems have the capacity to “completely destroy any target within 600 kilometers” (approximately 370 miles).
This development occurs amid rising tensions with the United States. According to reports, President Donald Trump recently sent a letter to Iranian officials urging a revival of nuclear negotiations and cautioning that a lack of compliance could lead to military action. In a response to the escalating situation, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted that American threats against Iran would be futile, promising a “hard slap” should the U.S. engage in hostilities against the Iranian nation.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, characterized Trump’s correspondence as carrying a threatening tone but recognized that it also hinted at potential openings for dialogue. He stated that Tehran’s response would come in the following days, indicating a cautious but calculated approach to the situation.
Amid these tensions, U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff remarked that Trump’s letter was an attempt to prevent escalation into armed conflict and was not meant as an overt threat. This diplomatic dance indicates the intricacies of international relations in the region, where both sides are navigating a complex web of threats and opportunities.
The three islands in question have been under Iranian control since 1971, despite ongoing territorial claims by the United Arab Emirates. In recent months, Tangsiri reaffirmed Iran’s intention to bolster its defense systems on these islands, signaling a strong commitment to maintaining its military readiness in the Gulf region amidst persistent geopolitical challenges.
