According to Reuters on May 28, the IRGC released a statement through the semi-official Tasnim news agency, claiming, "The U.S. conducted airstrikes near Bandar Abbas airport in southern Iran," and added, "We responded at 4:50 a.m. local time." The IRGC characterized this action as a retaliatory measure.
Prior to this, the U.S. had conducted operations targeting Iranian drones near Hormuz. Citing U.S. officials, Reuters reported that American forces shot down four Iranian attack drones that posed a threat to U.S. military and commercial vessels. Additionally, they struck a ground control center in Bandar Abbas that was preparing to launch a fifth drone.
The U.S. described the operation as a defensive measure to protect its military and commercial ships. Iran, however, views this as an infringement on its territory and has justified its response. The situation has led to heightened military tensions, with the U.S. framing its actions as defensive and Iran labeling them as retaliatory.
The IRGC warned that it would respond more forcefully if further attacks occurred. In its statement, it said, "If aggression is repeated, a more resolute response will follow," adding that the responsibility for escalating tensions lies with the aggressor. The IRGC did not disclose details regarding the means of attack, launch sites, target base names, or the scale of damage.
The key takeaway from this announcement is that Iran has officially expressed its intent to retaliate, even as the specifics of the targets and damage remain unclear. This situation further complicates the prospects for resuming navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and any ceasefire negotiations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.