Iran launched two intermediate-range ballistic missiles at the joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, but neither struck the target, according to US officials cited by news reports. The Wall Street Journal reported that one missile failed in flight, while a US warship fired an SM-3 interceptor at the other; it was unclear if an interception occurred. CNN also confirmed the launches, describing Diego Garcia as a crucial staging post for US operations and a key airfield for heavy bombers.
The attempted strike marks a significant escalation, as Iran targeted a base approximately 4,000km from its borders, suggesting missile ranges greater than Tehran has previously acknowledged. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had claimed last month that Iran's missiles were deliberately limited to 2,000km. The White House, British embassy in Washington, and UK Ministry of Defence did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Separately, Iran's military warned the United Arab Emirates against allowing attacks from its territory on the disputed islands of Abu Musa and Greater Tunb in the Persian Gulf. The Khatam Al-Anbiya command stated that if further aggression originates from UAE territory, Iran will subject Ras Al Khaimah to heavy strikes. The islands, controlled by Iran but claimed by the UAE, lie near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which is effectively blocked but normally handles about a fifth of global oil traffic.
US President Donald Trump expressed surprise that Australia has not sent warships to help open the Strait of Hormuz amid soaring fuel prices. Trump told Sky News Australia, 'I was very surprised... they should get involved, and I was a little bit surprised that they said no, because we always say yes to them.' He also criticised NATO allies as 'cowards' for not assisting. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded that Australia had provided the support requested and had not received a formal request from the US president.
The conflict has already cost the US $12.7bn in its first six days, with the Pentagon seeking up to $200bn in additional military funding. Oil prices have reached $125 per barrel, and the Ras Laffan liquefied natural gas plant in Qatar may not fully reopen for five years, costing $20bn annually. The situation marks a dramatic escalation from Cold War-era brinkmanship to open conflict.
