Iran has installed new missile systems on three strategically significant Gulf islands near the Strait of Hormuz, asserting its capability to strike enemy targets, as tensions with the United States continue to escalate.

According to state media reports on Saturday, the missile deployments took place on Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa—three islands in a vital maritime corridor responsible for a significant share of global oil shipments.

The development follows recent military exercises by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the region.

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC’s naval forces, stated that arming these islands was a strategic necessity.

“We are capable of attacking enemy bases, vessels, and assets in the region,” he said in an interview with state television, adding that the newly deployed systems “can completely destroy any target within 600 kilometres.”

Iran’s response to US letter

The announcement coincides with Tehran’s preparations to formally respond to a letter from US President Donald Trump urging the resumption of nuclear negotiations. The letter reportedly included a warning of potential military action should Iran refuse to engage in talks.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissed US warnings, stating that threats against Iran “will get them nowhere.” Addressing a gathering on Friday, he said, “If they do anything malign to the Iranian nation, they will get a hard slap.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged receipt of Trump’s letter, characterising it as “more of a threat than an invitation” but suggesting that it also contained certain opportunities. “We will give a formal response in the coming days,” he told reporters.

Meanwhile, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff attempted to downplay fears of an imminent conflict, asserting that the letter was not intended as a threat but as a step toward building diplomatic trust with Tehran.

Regional Implications

Iran has maintained control over the three Gulf islands since 1971, despite a longstanding territorial dispute with the United Arab Emirates. In September, Tangsiri had stated that Iran was actively expanding its military presence on these islands to reinforce national security.

The latest missile deployment is likely to fuel further regional tensions, with Gulf states and Washington closely monitoring Tehran’s military manoeuvres. The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point in US-Iran tensions, as any disruption to shipping through the narrow passage could have significant repercussions for global energy markets.