Iran's Revolutionary Guard Navy launches retaliatory strikes on Bahrain, Kuwait

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy and Air Force recently carried out retaliatory strikes against Bahrain and Kuwait, as well as the U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet. The attacks were a response to U.S. Central Command’s (CENTCOM) strikes near the Gulf of Hormuz, which themselves were a reaction to the attack on the Singapore‑registered container ship *Ever Lovely* in the strait.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) is a component of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, established in 1985. It is one of the country’s two maritime armed forces, operating alongside the traditional Iranian Navy. The IRGCN’s strategic and training system differs from that of the conventional navy, emphasizing asymmetric naval warfare with small, fast attack craft, anti‑ship missiles, naval mines, and assault tactics. It also performs coastal guard duties and maintains several naval infantry units, including naval special forces.

The IRGCN’s capabilities are substantial. The force reportedly comprises 55,000 sailors and 33,000 vessels, operating from the Persian Gulf to Dar Salaam and Zanzibar in Tanzania. These assets give the IRGCN a significant role in regional maritime affairs. The recent retaliatory strikes highlight the force’s strength and influence.

CENTCOM’s strikes on Iran were a response to Iranian actions near the Gulf of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints through which many oil tankers and cargo ships transit. Iran’s conduct drew international attention, and the United States and other nations called for an end to its aggressive actions.

The retaliatory strikes have affected regional security. Bahrain, Kuwait, and other states have strengthened the defense of their maritime territories, and the U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet has raised its alert level. The incident underscores the tense relationship between Iran and the United States, with both countries’ influence and interests in the Middle East remaining key factors in regional stability.

For Taiwan, the event is worth monitoring. Although Taiwan’s tensions with Iran and the United States are not directly linked, the incident’s impact on global affairs is significant. Taiwan is an important maritime trading nation, and the security of the Gulf of Hormuz directly affects its maritime trade and energy security. Therefore, Taiwan must continue to watch developments in regional security and safeguard its own maritime interests.