New Delhi: Iran’s network of seven islands along its southern coastline has now become a crucial weapon in its ability to control maritime traffic, and influence the oil routes so critical in the ongoing conflict.
Positioned in and around the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most vital energy chokepoints—these heavily fortified islands function as “unsinkable aircraft carriers”, enabling Tehran to monitor, regulate, and potentially disrupt global oil shipments.
While there is speculation that US ground troops may be preparing to take over Iran’s Kharg Island, a key fuel hub which handles 90 per cent of Tehran’s oil exports, some of the other islands may be equally crucial in this war.
But why does Iran describe them as its “unsinkable aircraft carriers”?
Tehran has outfitted its network of islands with radar systems, missile batteries, airstrips, fuel depots and naval launch points for submarines and fast-attack boats.
According to researchers, seven of these islands (Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, Hengam, Qeshm, Larak and Hormuz) form what is called an ‘arch defence’—a curved chain of positions that allows Iran to monitor and potentially disrupt virtually all movement through the Strait.
The geography of the strait explains the islands’ importance. Though the waterway narrows to about 21 miles at its tightest point, ships must travel through two designated channels between the islands, each only about two miles wide. These lanes pass close to Iranian-held territory.
Iran has increasingly used the islands to impose a form of gatekeeping over maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Reports say vessels may now be required to seek clearance through intermediaries linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in some cases paying substantial sums for safe passage.
The islands’ importance extends beyond surveillance. They act as launch points for missiles and drones. Their fixed nature being immune to sinking means that neutralising them would require direct military action. This has placed the islands at the center of strategic planning.
Moreover, the arrival of the USS Tripoli Monday carrying elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, now spotlights the possibility that amphibious operations could become the next phase of the conflict.
Tehran has warned that any attempt to seize its islands near the Strait of Hormuz including Abu Musa, Greater and Lesser Tunb, Hengam, Qeshm, Larak, and Hormuz would prompt a retaliation against the UAE far exceeding any attacks it has carried out since February 28.