US carries out another round of minor strikes on Iran, Trump says
The US military carried out limited strikes targeting an Iranian air defense installation on Friday, an action Donald Trump described as minor and swiftly executed. Iranian state media reported two explosions in the Suza area of Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, an essential maritime oil corridor disrupted since the conflict began in February. The attack follows previous strikes on Monday near Qeshm, Hengam, and Bandar Abbas.
The operation represents the first military move since Tuesday’s midterm elections, in which Trump’s Republican party faced setbacks fueled by voter frustration over the war and elevated fuel prices. While Trump has oscillated between aggressive rhetoric and claims of an impending peace, Iran’s nuclear program remains the primary barrier to ending hostilities. Underscoring this focus, US Central Command announced a State Department Rewards for Justice offer of up to $20 million and possible relocation for actionable intelligence regarding Iran's nuclear sites, equipment, and scientific personnel.
Meanwhile, diplomatic mediation led by Qatar is accelerating. Trump noted that discussions with Iran continue, as US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke with Qatari counterpart Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. That exchange followed a call between Trump and Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani, aimed at de-escalating tensions.
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