Iran–US Naval Tension Near Strait of Hormuz | Why Qeshm Island Is So Strategic

Added: 2026-05-16

[00:00:00]Breaking news reports claim Iran confronted two US Navy destroyers and forced them to pull back. In response, the US quickly launched F-18 fighter jets toward Iran's largest and most strategic island. But this island is far more important than most people realize.

[00:00:16]Located near the UAE, Qeshm Island sits right beside the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical shipping routes.

[00:00:23]Military experts believe whoever controls this island can heavily influence global trade and oil movement.

[00:00:30]Iran reportedly uses the island as a front-line defense zone. Some reports even claim there are underground missile bases hidden beneath it, along with secret drone launch sites.

[00:00:40]From above, the island appears quiet and almost empty. But underground, analysts believe Iran has built massive tunnel systems for military operations.

[00:00:50]Qeshm Island also gives Iran the ability to target ships moving through the Strait of Hormuz with anti-ship missiles. Nearby is Bandar Abbas, believed to be the main headquarters of the Iranian Navy.