Trump confirms US strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island amid talks
US President Donald Trump confirmed that American forces struck Iranian air defence equipment on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a minor operation that quickly destroyed an anti-aircraft device. Iranian state media reported two missile impacts in the Suza area, while broadcaster IRIB announced that Iranian air defences intercepted and destroyed an American MQ-9 drone over the island.
The strike came amid mixed diplomatic signals following Tuesday’s US midterm elections, where Trump’s Republican Party suffered setbacks he blamed on the war. Despite earlier warnings threatening wider destruction, Trump stated that Washington is actively dealing with Tehran and making notable progress. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari also dismissed reports of failed talks, warning that such narratives only benefit those seeking to prolong regional conflict.
Simultaneously, US Central Command characterized regional conditions as relatively calm while launching a reward offer of up to $20 million, alongside potential relocation, for intelligence on Iran’s nuclear program, facilities, and personnel. Meanwhile, thousands of US troops across more than a dozen naval vessels and regional bases remain prepared to resume combat operations if ordered.
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