The United States carried out strikes against Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, a US official said. The official, speaking anonymously, described them as defensive strikes targeting Iranians who were using surface-to-air missiles against a US asset. Iranian media reported five explosions on Qeshm island, in the strait.
The operation came hours after President Donald Trump said negotiations with Tehran could lead to an agreement. “Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible. It could happen!” he wrote on Truth Social. Vice President JD Vance also said he and Trump were optimistic about the prospects for a negotiated settlement.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said indirect talks with the United States were taking place through mediators. He described consultations as intensive and said Qatar and Pakistan were playing an active role.
The strikes took place on the eve of US midterm elections, in which Republicans are seeking to retain control of Congress. The war in Iran has become a point of political contention in Washington and has contributed to declining approval ratings for Trump, as opposition to the conflict grows, particularly over its economic consequences.
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, has been heavily disrupted since the war began in late February. The passage normally carries around a fifth of the world’s oil.
Sources: Euronews English.