Israeli forces carried out an operation near the port city of Bandar Abbas in southern Iran, striking unmanned aerial vehicle depots and a military facility belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) press service reported, specifying that the aim of the attack was to prevent threats related to the production and deployment of Iranian drones, which, according to Tel Aviv, could be used against Israeli targets. Local residents reported powerful explosions and thick smoke over the city, which was confirmed by videos posted on social media.

Iranian authorities confirmed the attack, saying that the strike affected military infrastructure in Bandar Abbas, but did not specify the extent of the damage. According to Middle Eastern media, the operation damaged warehouses where components for the production of drones were stored, as well as some equipment used for military developments. Official Tehran called Israel's actions an "act of aggression" and promised an "adequate response," stressing that Iran reserves the right to protect its national interests.

Bandar Abbas, located on the Persian Gulf, is a key strategic location for control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route. The strike on military installations in the area underscores Israel’s intention to weaken Iran’s military capabilities, particularly in the drone technology that Tehran is actively developing. Iranian drones such as the Shahed-136 have been used in regional conflicts in recent years, raising concerns among Israel and its allies.

The attack was part of an ongoing standoff between Israel and Iran that escalated in June 2025 after a series of Israeli strikes on targets linked to Tehran’s nuclear program. Iran responded by firing missiles into Israeli territory, causing casualties and destruction. The strike on Bandar Abbas demonstrates the expansion of the conflict’s geography to include attacks on infrastructure that supports Iran’s military capabilities in the Persian Gulf.