Larak Island

Why in News?

Larak Island in Iran's Strait of Hormuz was in the news following U.S. military strikes on Iranian missile launchers on the island in August 2026.

Key Facts

  • Larak Island is an Iranian island in the Persian Gulf, near the Strait of Hormuz.
  • It lies close to the strategic shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea.
  • Iran's Qeshm Island lies to its north.
  • The island has strategic significance because of its location near the Strait of Hormuz.

Strait of Hormuz — UPSC relevance

  • Connects Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
  • One of the world's most important energy chokepoints.
  • Major exports of crude oil and LNG pass through the region.
  • Any prolonged disruption can affect global energy prices, shipping and inflation.

Prelims Pointer: Larak Island → Iran → Strait of Hormuz → Persian Gulf.