Qeshm Island, Iran's largest island in the Persian Gulf, is located at the entrance of the Strait of Hormuz, separated from the mainland by the Khuran Strait. The island's name means 'the long island' in English, reflecting its extensive geography. It is a free trade zone and serves as a major hub for maritime traffic and services, heavily influenced by its proximity to vital oil and gas fields in the Gulf, making it an important strategic and tourist destination.

The terrain of Qeshm is diverse, characterized by mountainous and hilly regions, rocky coastlines, sandy bays, and mudflats, particularly in the northwestern areas. The island is rich in natural resources, including salt, oil, and gas, and supports traditional economic activities like fishing and limited agriculture. Qeshm's location has made it a focal point for commerce and military strategy in the Gulf, especially as tensions rise between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

Amid ongoing conflicts, including recent events from February 28, 2026, military expert Hassan Joni speculates that Qeshm Island may be a primary military target for U.S. Marine forces deployed to the Gulf region. Its strategic position holds significant implications for military logistics and control over one of the world's most crucial maritime routes, highlighting the island's importance in regional geopolitics and security dynamics.